Francis "Frank" Herbert Heffernan

It is with unimaginable grief and sorrow that we share the passing of Frank, an irreplaceable husband, father, and friend. Frank passed away at the age of 50, surrounded by the love of his three girls on December 27th, 2025, as a result of a brain aneurysm. He will be forever missed and loved by Lori (Smith), his wife of almost 25 years, and high school sweetheart, his daughters Hayleigh Jeanne and Faith Frances, his brother-in-law Jeff (Bobbie) Smith, nephews Cole, Dylan and Tyler, niece Alyssa, and his cousin-in-law Ashleigh Allen, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. Frank was a loving son who was predeceased by his parents Gerard and Anne (Moloney), and his brother, Lawrence Heffernan.

Proud to say he was from Douro, Frank grew up on the family farm, where hard work and a strong moral compass were expected and respected. He made lifelong friends in childhood and cultivated other special friendships throughout his life. He was a compassionate soul who showed an honest interest and concern for those around him. Frank always had a kind word, a joke or a story to share. He made people laugh and feel seen.

An excellent athlete, Frank excelled in many sports. He played hockey, soccer, lacrosse, golf, and the list goes on. He loved being active but maybe more importantly, he cherished the friends and memories that he made while participating in them.

Frank shared himself with his community and others. As a teenager he coached church league softball, and when his girls started showing the same love for sports as he did, he became a proud Douro Duke hockey coach for his daughter Faith, and an exuberant soccer coach for his daughter Hayleigh. Knowing that referees were required for minor hockey, Frank became ‘Heff the Ref’ where he could be seen chatting with players, coaches, and parents before, during and after the games. He was a Knight of Columbus in Douro, and he enjoyed social events and giving back.

Our hearts are breaking. It is difficult to express just how profoundly his absence will impact his family, friends and neighbours. We will always remember Frank’s infectious laugh which always allowed us to track down where he was, his faithful loyalty to the Pittsburgh Penguins and San Francisco 49’ers, his love for karaoke and campfires, his shenanigans at his trailer in Picton and his desire and commitment to being the very best husband and girl dad that he could be. He definitely was that.

Frank was a Type 1 diabetic who knew the importance of looking after his health and was a role model for others. We ask that donations be made to the Diabetes Association.

At the visitation, Frank’s family welcomes you to wear clothing that reminds you of Frank and his many interests. That may mean wearing your favourite jersey or t-shirt, a Douro Duke coat or hat, perhaps even a wrestling mask (if you know, you know) and he would probably even welcome a Leaf jersey if you are a close friend!

A visitation will be held at Ashburnham Funeral Home - 840 Armour Road, Peterborough on Thursday, January 1, 2026, from 12:00 - 5:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph's Church - 300 County Road 8 Douro-Dummer on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Interment at St. Joseph's Cemetery. A light luncheon will take place following the interment at the Church Hall.