Richard Gordon Heans

Heans, Richard Gordon, 76, of Coldbrook, NS, passed away unexpectedly on January 25, 2024. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Born in Halifax, he was the son of the late Gordon and Shirley (Usher) Heans.

Rick joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1967 retiring after 30 years of service in 1997. He was a qualified Aeroengine Technician and had postings at bases Greenwood, Gagetown, Moose Jaw, and Trenton. During his penultimate posting to Bagotville, he fulfilled a career dream as a technical training instructor with 3FTTU. After retirement, he maintained ties with the Air Force reserves before embracing retired life. He enjoyed meeting people and working on his lawn and garden as well as reading.

While the military kept him busy servicing aircraft in foreign locales and around Canada, his family kept him grounded, going with him to each posting for a new adventure. He and Sandra celebrated over 52 years of marriage. He was an extremely proud father and grandfather.

He was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Sandra (Hartlen); his son, Chris (Amy Coleman); and his daughter, Andrea (Doug Gillis). He is also survived by his grandson, Thomas Heans who affectionately referred to Rick as Boppi. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Heans and her children.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses who provided care during Rick’s cancer treatments over the past three plus years. Cremation has taken place and per Rick’s request there will be no funeral service. Family and friends will gather at a later date to inter his ashes. Donations can be made in Rick’s memory to Movember (https://ca.movember.com/donate), the Terry Fox Foundation (https://terryfox.org/?form=GENERAL), or a charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.