NOVEMBER 28, 1939 – JUNE 28, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Grant John Heimpel. He left us on June 28th, 2024, in his 85th year surrounded by his loving family at the Lisaard House. Born on November 28th, 1939, in Kitchener, ON, he was the youngest of four children to Helen Heimpel. Grant spent his childhood in Heidelberg, ON and later settled in Cambridge, ON where he lived most of his life. In retirement, he enjoyed summers at the family cottage in Bobcaygeon, and winters in Arizona.
Grant's career in the grocery industry began at the Bast Red & White grocery store. He then spent five years at Central Meat Market where he built a foundation of knowledge for the grocery business. He moved to Zehrs Markets in 1963, where he began as an Assistant Manager and eventually rose to President in 1985. A position he held until his retirement in 2000. He was passionate about his work and always considered himself a Grocer, leaving behind a legacy of humility, integrity, and leadership.
Grant was a man of faith, deeply humble, and charitable. He enjoyed hockey, boating, and, golf, but the greatest joy in Grant’s life was to spend time with his family.
Grant is survived by his beloved wife Norah of 58 years who he met at Zehrs Markets in Guelph, ON. They were married on May 6th, 1966 at St. Peters Evangelical Lutheran Church in Heidelberg. Grant is also survived by his children Sherri Heimpel-Peers (Keith Peers), and Jeffrey Heimpel (fiancé Tammy Renée Lalonde); grandchildren Tara Peers, and Rebecca Murphy (Mike); great-grandchildren Blake and Deacon Murphy; siblings Ken Heimpel, Doreen Book; and by many other dear relatives.
Grant was predeceased by his mother Helen Heimpel, for whom he had great respect; his brother Robert Heimpel (Delores), and sister in-law Patricia Heimpel, along with several other nieces and nephews. We would be remiss, if we left out their beloved cat Angel.
Special thanks to Dr. Sehl and the nursing team at Cambridge Memorial Hospital that cared for him. With gratitude, we thank the staff at Lisaard House for their compassionate care.
Grant’s wisdom and love will remain in our hearts forever. We take solace in the quote by Rumi: “Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with their heart and soul there is no such thing as separation”.
Visitation will be held at Coutts Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 96 St Andrews Street, Cambridge on Wednesday, July 3rd from 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 p.m. The Funeral Service will take place at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 63 Grand Avenue North, Cambridge on Friday, July 5th at 11 a.m. with a reception to follow at the Galt Country Club. If you are unable to attend the service a live stream will be available through Coutts website. Interment will take place at a later date.
Fond memories and donations may be shared through the funeral home at www.couttsfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, the families wishes are that donations in memory of Grant are to be made to the Lisaard House or the Food Bank. Non-perishable food will also be collected at the Visitation or Reception, for the Cambridge Food Bank.
We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. – Winston Churchhill
