Obituary of Kenneth Allan Heins

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth Allan Heins, music lover, singer, vinyl enthusiast, landscaper, history buff, and seeker of adventure. Ken was a man of many enterprises who faced each day with a pure and open heart. Ken died peacefully on December 11, 2020 in Fredericton, N.B. He was 67. He leaves behind his partner Susan Lee; daughter Vanessa (Conor); brothers David (Wendy) and Tim (Lucie); Susan’s parents and siblings; and many nieces and nephews. Ken was predeceased by his mother Shirley in June of this year, and his father Kenneth in November 1996. Ken was born in Toronto and grew up in Aylmer, Quebec, among a family of music lovers. He loved to sing and over the years performed in bands, in countless kitchens, and especially at Patty’s Pub in Ottawa on Thursday nights with dear friends Charles de Lint and MaryAnn Harris. When he lived in Vancouver, he worked in the music industry and became a lifelong collector of vinyl records. He had a deep appreciation of music that crossed many genres and prevailed throughout his life. During his career working in the music and automotive industries, Ken was a creative and analytical thinker, designing ground-breaking inventory, storage, and safety systems that will be part of his legacy. Ken appreciated all things vintage, especially the '89 Buick he called "Black Beauty," which he kept on the road for many years. He loved to take the car on long drives, to discover and explore new places and meet new people. Ken loved people, opening himself up to everyone he met, and would always take time to welcome newcomers to Canada, to mentor young people, and generally offer encouraging words to anyone who needed a lift. An exuberant communicator, Ken took great pleasure in conversation and as a result was blessed with devoted friends across the country and beyond. Ken’s partner Susan brought joy and love to his life and together they built a strong and devoted union. He retired in 2019 and moved with Susan from Ottawa to Fredericton. Ken was deeply proud of his daughter Vanessa and treasured his close connection with her. In memory of Ken, keep your loved ones close, sing and dance together, and offer an encouraging and welcoming hand to a stranger. That’s how Ken lived, that’s how he made the world a better place, and that’s how he will always be lovingly remembered. Ken’s family would like to thank the NB Extra-Mural program, the Palliative Care team, and staff at Hospice Fredericton for the compassionate care he received. Memorial services will be private. Donations in Ken’s name can be made to Hospice Fredericton.