Eric John Hey
April 10, 1951 - September 14, 2022
God called Eric John Hey to Heaven, surrounded by his family peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at age 71. He was the wonderful husband and soulmate of Marianne (née Capek). Beloved father to Collin (Ali) and Brandon, and the delighted grandfather “Apa” to Estelle Marie. Cherished son of the late Patricia Elizabeth and Peter Hey. Caring son-in-law to Mary Elizabeth and the late Francis “Frank” Charles Capek. Dear brother to Glenda Thomas (Chuck), and brother-in-law to Rosemarie Charters (Dalton) and David Capek. Loved uncle to Jason, Sara, and Dalton Matthew; and great-uncle to Jillian. Eric will be deeply missed by cousins in the UK, Scotland, Australia and Canada.
He will be remembered as a friend to many. Eric was born in Hillingdon, West London, UK on April 10, 1951. He loved music, playing his guitars, sailing, motorcycling, driving his Jag, and the great outdoors. He was an artist, musician, a fine carpenter, industrial designer, car enthusiast, and an avid reader of history and politics. Eric worked at GE London as an Industrial Designer before working with the UWO Multi-Disciplinary Accident Research Team for three years (which led to mandating seatbelts in vehicles in the late 1970s). Over the span of 38 years, he worked on insurance claims, first as an Adjuster, then as a Claims Superintendent, and in the Special Investigations Unit with State Farm/Desjardin. His talent and skills were revered and sought by many.
Family and friends are welcome to join us for a visitation on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 2 o’clock p.m., with a service to follow at 3 o’clock. There will be a Celebration of Life at 4 o’clock p.m., following the service. For those unable to attend, the family welcomes you to participate in the service via livestream on the funeral home website.
To register for the livestream, please click here: Registration page to view the livestream of Eric’s service on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 3:00 p.m.
Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Eric are asked to consider the Lake Huron Coastal Centre, The Terry Fox Foundation, The War Amps, or to the Hey Family GoFundMe, to go towards a memorial bench that will be placed at the pier in Bayfield, Ontario, overlooking the river and Lake Huron.
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Our hearts go out to each and everyone! Such a wonderful man. The Ellison’s and especially my mom would be happy to know that we will always stay close together. Hugs and kisses to all of you at this very difficult time. Love Terry & Cameron
Marianne and family Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to your family for the loss of Eric who was a genuine human being displaying attributes of integrity, kindness and caring for others. Treasure all the great memories of Eric and hold those close to your heart. It was a real pleasure meeting Eric for the first time with Marianne and the new dog and having lunch on our deck on a hot August day last year. Now God has Eric in his embrace.
Sincere condolences to the Hey family.
Marianne Collin and Brandon our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Although we have not seen you and Eric in a long time we fondly remember our trips together and the time spent at your place in London and at ours. I worked with Eric for many years and he was always great to work for and with. Al and esther censner
RIP dear friend. Will miss you. There are countless fond memories thank you for them.
Dear Marianne and Family, I met Eric for the first time, along with the rest of his bandmates through Don, the drummer in the band. What a great bunch of guys! Eric was a stand out not just by his height but his musical ability. He was quite humble and well-rehearsed, the consummate team player. I soon learned after joining the band he also possessed a great sense of humour. The five of us started playing little halls in the small towns around Newmarket. A bunch of 16/17 year olds taking on the world! Great fun! I lost touch with the guys for quite a few years when I moved West , but thanks to Rich and James we had a couple of chances to catch up and happily Eric was able to join in on the dinner and “Bull” sessions. Old friends once again and you think it will never end. It was so sad to hear of Eric’s passing but from the few conversations we had I just knew he was taking care of his family and he was looking forward to his retirement and hobbies. Gone way too soon old friend. Until we meet again.
Marianne and family, our deepest sympathy on hearing of Eric's passing. Looking back it was fortunate that we got to meet at the coffee shop in Chatham. We had a wonderful visit. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Marianne and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Eric joined the London State Farm office about 6 months after me and we shared many work stories over the years. During his years in the Kitchener office we often went for lunch, so much so that at certain spots the wait staff would deliver our preferred soft drinks as we got to the table. Miss those times. Rest in peace my friend.
Marianne, I am so sorry to hear of Eric's passing. I just found out this morning. I have many happy memories of him and his sense of humor, most often when we met at the boat show and enjoyed dinner together. We lost him too young, and I know that loss will be felt for a long time. My heart goes out to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Mark
Hey Captain,,,You were A loyal man, that, steered the wheel in a straight line. You were the strength to your amazing family, so glad we had some laughs & chats along the way... miss you Eric your friend.
Eric, my walking mate. I’ll miss the walks and chats we had each afternoon. Our conversations about politics, Covid, work and life in general. We both shared a love of travel and music. Thanks for laughing at my corny Ozzie jokes. You were a true-blue cobber!!! We feel privileged that we met and we will miss you….
Marianne, Collin and Brandon So sorry to hear about the passing of Eric (husband and father) We shared many good times together, travelling several times to Cuba and Mexico. We shared many a social beverage in London. He was the anchor that held the Hey family together. His ship sailed away far too soon!
Marianne, Brandon, Collin and Family, although we have not seen Eric for years we have many great memories from working and partying with Eric at State Farm. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
To Marianne, Brandon and Collin we are so sorry of Eric's passing so soon. As a friend and a neighbor we had many enjoyable times sailing, Toronto boat show, Muskoka, nascar race and travelling to Cuba and Mexico. There memories will be always be cherished.
Dear Marianne, Brandon, Collin, Glenda and family. My deepest condolences to you at this time for the loss of your dearest husband, father and brother. Although we did not see much of each other in the past few years, I did consider ERIC to be one of my earliest and best friends since our first meeting in grade 9. ERIC was instrumental in introducing me and accepting me into the band where we played the 60’s and 70’s music of the day. You changed my life dear friend. I look forward to seeing you again on the other side where we will once again play music.
So happy I got to know you. Best of memories. Best teacher. Warmest thoughts for your family.
Marianne, Brandon and Colin Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband and father. It was wonderful to have known Eric over the years as part of the family. Michelle De Coninck & Brian Kuzemchuk
Marianne, Brandon, and Colin Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your husband and father. It was a pleasure to have known Eric over the years as part of the family. Michelle De Coninck and Brian Kuzemchuk
It has been a privilege to have had Eric in my life in the early years. We had some really great times in the band back then. Eric keep on rocking and the winds in your ⛵️. I'm sure we will meet again . Condolences to the Hay family. 💖
To Marianne and all of your family, I was so very sorry to hear of the passing of Eric. Eric was one of the most kind, gentle and fun people we have ever known. Please know that my heart and thoughts are with you at this time.
To Marianne and all of your family, I was so very sorry to hear of the passing of Eric. I will always remember Eric as being one of the most beautiful, kind and fun friends we have ever known. Please know that my heart and thoughts are with you at this time.
Sincere condolences to the Hey family, our prayers are with all of you 🙏may he rest in peace 🙏
Our hearts go out to you Marianne, Brandon, Collin, and all of your family. We were saddened to hear of the passing of Eric. Although it has been many years since we had seen him, we have wonderful memories that we will cherish forever. We truly do look forward to the time when we can renew old friendships, share old memories and make some new ones, when we see Eric again. In the meantime, know that our thoughts and prayers are with you guys and our arms are around you. Love to you all, Mike and Judy
I am so sorry for your loss. Eric was my manager for several years at State Farm in Kitchener. He was an amazing boss and an amazing kind soul. He used to take his team out on the sailboat for "team" meetings. I remember one trip, most of us being sea sick lol, but he loved to sail and we had to wait until he was ready to return to land - sick or not! Great memories!
Eric was one of the most gentle, kind and thoughtful person I have ever had the privilege to have known. His life was filled with love, laughter, music and a fortune of friends and family. What more could a man ask for? Let Charlie Watts fill in for me buddy until I get there to join your band. All my love to you and your beautiful family, my dear friend!
Marianne, Brandon and Collin. So sorry for your great loss. Sending healing prayers and comfort hugs. With deepest sympathy, Richard and Nancy Havens
Eric it was great sadness Lidia and I learned of your passing! It does not seem right that you left so quick. We had just became friends I wish I had spent more time with you. You seemed to be a very gentle sole that one could only benefit from. Of course our thoughts are with Marianne and your two sons who must be in deep shock! We take comfort knowing you left this world in your home surrounded by family that lives you. It is a sad time for those who loved you and friends that knew and respected you. God bless you Eric! I know God must have called you early for good reason. Good bye Eric you will not be forgotten!
We will greatly miss you Eric. The fun we shared together and your great sense of humor. Eric always had an optimistic outlook pretty much on everything. Very patient, and forgiving. Yes, God has taken home a very special person. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have been able to share a small part of your life.
Eric was a wonderful friend to all. So very kind, caring and compassionate. Gone far to soon. Will be missed . We will miss you’re laughter and smile. And many great times and great dinners and conversations. Deborah & Mailey 💕
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Marianne, Our deepest sympathies in the passing of your husband. Our thoughts and prayers are with. Love Ginnie & Ray
~ Ray & Ginnie D’Hondt