Mr. Ronald Charles Heffren passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 21st 2023 in his 69th year after a courageous battle with cancer.
Ron will be dearly missed by the love of his life Sandra Donohue, whom he spent the last 34 years with happily by his side. He was also a caring father, friend and mentor to son Jesse (Pam) Heffren and a loving step-dad to Sean Horvath. He leaves behind his wonderful stepfather Lloyd Logel, beloved siblings Ann (Malcolm) Woods, Jean Smith, Ruth (Steve) Spitzer, Joe (Sara) Logel, and their children. He will also be well remembered by the Donohue/Moore clan.
Ron was predeceased by his father Charles Heffren, mother Jean Logel (nee Williams) sister Joan Heffren and nephew Joshua George.
Ron was born in Tillsonburg on February 7th 1954. He was raised in the Ottawa Valley area, then moved to Fergus before making Thunder Bay his home in 1977.
Ron lived life to the fullest in every aspect. For those who knew "Captain Ron", he was a fierce and loyal friend, always quick to laugh and share a joke or story. Ron was proud of his professional achievements with over 45 years of experience as a master machinist specializing in hydraulics. He used his analytical mindset and determination to see any job from start to finish, no job was too big or small. Ron loved to teach and mentor by taking every opportunity to share his knowledge.
In his leisure time, Ron's endless energy extended to his passion for travel, the outdoors and automobiles. He built his 49-foot boat called “The Smile ‘n Wave” where he lived on Lake Superior. He also took many trips throughout North America on his motorcycle and frequently headed to warm destinations in the winter with family and friends.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 575 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay.
A casual send-off party for Captain Ron will be held on Saturday July 15th 2023 at the Westfort Prosvita (721 West Gore Street, Thunder Bay, Ontario) from 3-10pm
"a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor"
