HELD, Heinz - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and cherished grandfather, Heinz Held on October 12, 2011 after a courageous battle with mesothelioma.

Our dad left us with a legacy that revolved around his work ethic, faith in God, helping others, and his love and affection for his family.

Heinz was born in Leonberg ,Poland to Gerhard and Frieda Held. His adventurous spirit led him to immigrate to Canada at the age of 19 to pursue his plumbing trade. He settled in the Vernon area where he met and married Monika Sass. Heinz’s ambition and hard work led him to start his own business, Heinz Held Plumbing and Heating. He was also the co-founder of Pleasant Valley Memorial Chapel and Hytec Manufacturing (Kohler) in Armstrong. Dad always considered his greatest success and accomplishment to be in raising his family. His love and support for his children and grandchildren were immeasurable and will never be forgotten. Heinz also found great satisfaction in volunteering his skills and could always be counted on to help anyone in need.

Heinz is survived by his children; Glenn and Susan Held, Greg and Beki Held, Glenda and Andy Laser, and Tammy and Bob Harder. Also saddened by their beloved Opa’s passing are his grandchildren; Nolan and Olivia Held, Tyson and Dawson Held, Adam, Caleb and Natalie Laser, and Sydney and Brett Harder. Heinz is also survived by his sister Inge Brenneke and brother Sigfriede (Margit) Held in Germany. Heinz was predeceased by his wife, Monika, in 2010.

As difficult as this journey was for our Dad, he was blessed with love and support from dear friends and wonderful caregivers. Special thanks to Sandy, Cindy, Gordon, Jerry, Corey, Joanne and Trina of Nurse Next Door for the wonderful care and compassion you provided. Heinz’s family is also appreciative for the kindness and care that was provided by the staff at Pleasant Valley Manor, Polson Special Care Unit and Vernon Hospice House.

A Celebration of Heinz’s Life will be held on Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 11:00 am at the Vernon Alliance Church (2601 43 Avenue, Vernon, BC) with Reverend Henry Friesen officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to "Faith Mission" in support of The Faith Mission Retreat Centre (RR#1 C25 Cedar Hill Road, Falkland, BC V0E 1W0) or the North Okanagan Hospice Society (3506 27 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 14, www.nohs.ca).

Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family at www.myalternatives.ca.

Arrangements entrusted to
ALTERNATIVES FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES
Armstrong 250-546-7237

• It was such a shock to read about Heinz in the paper - he was such an understanding and gracious man. Please accept our condolences on your loss.
  
  Ed & Ted Nedjelski Oct 19, 2011

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