James Reginald Heath

James R. "Edward" Heath peacefully entered eternal rest at his home on November 16, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 20, 1937, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Preceded in death by his parents, James Reginald and Marrian, and his sister Jeannette, he is survived by his loving family: his wife Eveline and their three children Pamela (Adam Orandi), Karen (Mate Gaspar), and Christopher; his sister Margaret Caroline; and his six cherished grandchildren, Tanner, Sofia, Karlo, Olivia, Arshia and Archer who lovingly called him "Poppy."
Edward held degrees in law and liberal arts from the University of Manitoba and worked side-by-side with his father steadfastly expanding their freshwater fisheries refinery into a thriving corporation. As a business owner and CEO he helped many individuals, often giving them their first job, taking them under his wing and sharing his business acumen. He was a true entrepreneur. It was also here in early apprenticeship with his father where he learned to drive 18-wheelers and cultivated his appreciation for automobiles, going on to become a vintage car collector. He was always up for a Sunday drive after church in his classic white Cadillac with his beloved Eveline.
It was in 1960 at the University of Manitoba in a music appreciation class where Edward met Eveline. They wed in 1963 and for decades, while raising their children, they enjoyed travel, performing arts, books, music, museums, movies, and sunsets. A highlight was when they packed up the RV and became snowbirds with the kids in tow. They ultimately retired to Fountain Hills, Arizona, in 1985 where Ed was active in the Knights of Columbus, Church of the Ascension, St. Vincent de Paul, and the local auto clubs. He revisited his passion for oil painting, reading, and writing. Edward loved Fountain Hills and was a frequent visitor of the library, the community center, the arts fairs, and the parks. He was looking forward to the opening of the new Dark Sky Center.
To know Ed, you knew you were in for a good story or anecdote, a joke, a helping hand, a smile, and a prayer. Husband, father, grandfather, brother: we love you forever and will especially remember your compassion and zest for life. A Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on March 7, 2026, at Church of the Ascension in Fountain Hills. May perpetual light shine upon him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Vincent de Paul.