December 1, 1933 – February 12, 2022 Rudy’s kindness and quick sense of humour touched so many people in his 88 years. Growing up in Guelph, Ontario, Rudy honed his wit drawing cartoons for the Guelph Collegiate yearbook and spent summers scooping ice cream at the Royal Dairy Bar. His childhood was not without drama: One day in 1943 he slipped into the Speed River and was heroically rescued by an older boy named Johnny Bartok. They became close friends and, fortunately for all of us, Rudy’s story did not end there. He went on to study psychology at the University of Western Ontario and earned his Master’s degree at the University of Toronto, where he met Jane, who would become his beloved wife of 63 years. Following a stint at the Ontario Hospital in Hamilton, Rudy was hired in 1964 as a counselling psychologist at McMaster University, beginning a career at “Mac” that spanned more than 30 years. Initially, Rudy was the only psychologist serving 4,000 students. He persuaded the university to provide funding for additional staff and in 1968 the McMaster Student Counselling Service was born, with Rudy serving as director until 1985. In addition to providing thousands of students with personal and career support, the department was the source of lifelong friendships for Rudy. His commitment to improving the lives of students also extended to leadership roles in external organizations including the Ontario Committee on Student Affairs and the Canadian University and College Counselling Association. Recognizing his profound contributions to student life, in 1986 McMaster named him Dean of Student Affairs, a position he held until his retirement in 1996. Always putting the needs of students first, he was greeted with chants of “Rudy! Rudy! Rudy!” at speaking events. His legacy is recognized by awards including the Rudy Heinzl Award of Excellence, which has been presented annually since 1997 in recognition of an outstanding achievement by an individual who improves the lives of McMaster students. After retiring, Rudy enjoyed painting, volunteering on local boards, travelling, hosting a radio program at McMaster and relaxing at the family cottage in Southampton – a special place for four generations of Heinzls dating back to Rudy’s father, Roman, plus numerous cats and dogs (Rusty, Zoe, Sam, Max, Tom etc.) who were close to Rudy’s heart. Rudy is dearly missed by his wife, Jane, his sons Richard (Carrie), John (Michelle), Mark (Paula), and his grandchildren Ryan, Carson, Curtis, Amy, Jackson, Charlie and Mary Jane. As Rudy would say, “See you next time, if not sooner.” A private family remembrance will be held.
Peacefully at his home, on Friday, February 11, 2022, in his 71st year. Beloved husband of Christine (nee Allaby) and dear father of Douglas and Katie. Loving brother to Greg (Pat), Bev Westoby, Wendy (Dave) Brenn, Bill (Cindy), John (Kim), Glenn (Brenda), Shari Sonoda (Dave) and Jamie (Katherine). Predeceased by his parents Norm (1998) and Norma (1999) and his brother David (1997). Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Bob’s life will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.
Peacefully at St. Peter’s Hospital on February 9, 2022, in her 94th year. Predeceased by her husband Jim. Betty will be sadly missed by her daughter Dianna, son-in-law Brent and granddaughter Elyse. Staff at Seasons Retirement home thank you for your kindness. An avid sports fan, she loved watching her Leafs, Ticats and Blue Jays. Donations may be made to Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice. Cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will be held at a later date in Dundas.
With love and gratitude, we say goodbye to our fun-loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She was affectionately known to many as Marg or Margie. She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Ann (Phil) Ruch; mother-in-law to Russ Powers (Betty Cartwright). Loving grandmother to Patricia (Jamie) Balardo, Scott Powers, and Jennifer (Clinton) Syrowitz, as well as 2 great grandchildren, Christopher and Sean Balardo. She is also survived by her sisters Grace Stutt and Erna Whetham, as well as many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her husband Irwin (“Tim”) Eaton (2008), daughter Linda Powers (2009) and siblings Jim (Alice) Hall, Lorne (AnnaMae) Hall, and Mary (Don) Warren. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Michael West, St. Elizabeth Health PSW’s, and staff at Amica Dundas, for their compassionate care. A private service has been held. Expressions of sympathy to the Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated by the family.
Passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Villa in her 91st year on Sunday, February 6, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Gordon (2014) and predeceased by her brother Lawrence Bentley. Cherished mother of three sons and their wives; Doug and Cindy, Steve and Mary Jane and Gordon and Laurie. Loving Grandma to Michelle (Henrik), Julie (Graeme), Mike (Tammi), Jeff (Jen), Tyler (Jenn), Kody (Cassandra) and Kyle (Carling). Loving Great-grandma to Annika, Benjamin, Pierce, Hannah, Paige, Macie, Chase, Karsyn, Harper and Hayden. Many thanks to the wonderful staff on Valley Trail at St. Joseph’s Villa for their excellent care. Special thanks to Jason for allowing us to see Mom via FaceTime during the Covid lockdowns. A private family service will be held.
