Eric Michael Heighton

Eric was the seventh of eight children, he was the biggest of all his siblings and the only one who was able to trick his mom with false labor a few days earlier. He was always keeping his parents on their toes.

Eric was a mischievous child with big blue eyes and blonde curly hair. Growing up he had a passion for hockey, a sport which he played for several years. He also loved snowboarding and spending time in the mountains. After high school he worked for several years as a land surveyor, a job he really enjoyed because of the time spent outside. He was incredibly hard working. Eric absolutely loved the wilderness and had a huge appreciation for all the beautiful things that mother nature had to offer. He was a hippie at heart and adored animals, especially cats. Eric was an avid traveller and had been to Mexico twice, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Maui and also traveled frequently within Alberta and BC. Eric enjoyed both fine times and fine music. He was always smiling and had a laugh that we will forever miss. Eric had been a proud uncle since he was six years old and even after he had grown up he was a big kid at heart, always playing with his nieces and nephews. He loved his family and his friends. He had the kindest heart and his sisters fondly referred to him as the gentle giant.

Eric passed away unexpectedly at home on January 27, 2022. His passing has left a giant hole in the hearts of those who loved him. Eric is survived by his mom Carmen, four brothers: Danny, David, Gord (Shandi) and Tommy, three sisters: Jenn (Nick), Cassandra and Trinity. Nieces and nephews: Michaela, Kaley, Ariellah, Lylli, Derek, Bryson, Adalynne and Nate. His grandmother Ingrid, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Eric is predeceased by his father Ralph, grandparents: Raymond, Allen and Henny and his best friend Mason.

Eric has touched the hearts of many people. There will be a visitation that is open to anyone who would like to pay their respects on February 7, 2022 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Parkland Funeral Services located at 3502 44 Ave Stony Plain, AB. If you would like to send a letter or a note to be buried with Eric please bring it then.

There will be a celebration in honour of Eric’s life at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, Spruce Grove starting at 11:00 am on Tuesday, February 8. This will be followed by a funeral mass at 1:00 pm and a traditional burial at 2:15 pm at St. Joesph’s Cemetery. A reception will then be hosted by the family on their acreage west of Stony Plain at 3:30 pm.

The Celebration of life and funeral mass will be by invitation only. Please reach out to the family if you have not been contacted and would like to attend. The burial and reception are open to the public.