Dennis James Heward

Dennis will be fondly remembered by his children, Corby and Erin (Blane); his grandchild, Connor; his brothers, Dwight (Mugs) and Lynn (Michelle); his ex-wife, Val; and numerous relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Evelyn; and his brother, Dale.

Born and raised in Claresholm, Alberta, Dennis attended school in a two-room schoolhouse. After completing grade twelve, he worked as an attendant at the Provincial Mental Hospital in Claresholm. He later entered the Psychiatric Nursing Program at Ponoka, cherishing the “fond memories and friendships that have sustained throughout the years”. During his studies, he pursued a two-year diploma in hospital administration at the University of Saskatchewan, followed by a post-graduate RN diploma achieved through Red Deer College in 1975.

In 1972, Dennis married Valerie Miller in Lacombe. His career included roles at the Alberta Hospital in Ponoka and as the Health Care Officer at the Federal Prison in Drumheller. In 1977, he was promoted to Deputy Warden of Health Care (later titled Chief of Health Services) at the newly constructed Edmonton Institution, where he served until his retirement in 2004.

Retirement opened the door to many adventures for Dennis. He travelled to Africa and enjoyed a vacation of a lifetime. He played countless rounds of golf and crib with dear friends and family. He also took up curling and continued his passion for painting.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dennis’s name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 2300 Yonge Street, Suite 1200, Box 2414, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4.