Obituary of Heber Keats

It is with great sadness that the family of the late Heber Keats announce his passing on December 11, 2019, at the Labrador Health Centre in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador at the age of 91. 

Heber was a dedicated member of the Lake Melville Shrine Club since 1985, and was a member of Polaris Lodge #17, initiated on June 20, 1974, passed to the second degree October 17, 1974 and passed to the sublime degree of Master Mason November 21, 1974.  He was equally committed to the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Happy Valley. Heber was most proud of his vast family and he cherished each new addition with joy and love.  He was a presence at most local events and loved chatting with anyone about anything, especially about ‘the good old days’ on the base, his many years of managing hockey teams, his love of his German Shepherd dogs and especially his resilient (some may say blinding) love of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Above all of Heber’s virtues, Heber was most known for his generosity and kindness- to strangers, family, friends and neighbours- to help those who were in need of a tool, a helping hand, a donation, or to a grandchild who wanted a ride in the wheel barrel.

Heber will be sadly missed by his children:  Donna (Sherry), Heather (Veronica), Dee (Keith), Debbie, Dianne (Neil), Gary (Janet), Dennis (Wanda), Bill (Clara), Rosalyn (Wayne); 12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; his brother Harry; as well as his nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. Heber was predeceased by his wife Lily, parents Albert and Jane Keats; brothers:  Walt, Frank; sisters:  Marg, Irene. Visitation on Saturday, December 14, 2019 from 2-4 & 7–9 P.M. at Fillatre’s Funeral Home.  Funeral service on Sunday, December 15, 2019 at 2 P.M. at the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church with Reverend Nellie Thomas officiating. Interment to follow at the Anglican Cemetery.  As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Mazol Temple Montreal Shriner’s Hospital