March 28, 1947 – August 2, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Frank, cherished husband and best friend of Barbara, who were married August 24, 2002. Frank was born March 28, 1947 in Vierlingsbeek, The Netherlands. Through his childhood Frank came to Canada three separate times with his parents and some siblings before moving permanently here in 1962. Frank will be greatly missed by his Step Children Steve Mealing, Wayne (Kathy) Mealing and Matt (Tasha) Mealing. Grandfather to Cooper, Ella and Brock. Survived by his brother Gus Heyden (Willie) Predeceased by his siblings Wilma, Bert, Jack, Ann, Christine and Francis. Fondly remembered by close family friend Anita Ford.
At the start of his working career Frank was a Tow Truck Driver, Ambulance Driver and Corrections Officer. Upon finding his passion of working with his hands and wood, Frank then focused on construction and became a licensed master carpenter through the Ministry of Colleges and Universities of Ontario in 1973, then working for several builders and kitchen design companies. In April 1986, Frank formalized his own company, F.J. Van Der Heyden Construction Ltd. Over a period of 20 + years Frank built many homes before focusing on custom homes, cottages and historical renovations. He became a certified Softplan Architectural Design Instructor in 1994, an additional service he offered his clients. Frank was an active member of The Ontario Home Builders Association, Canadian Home Builders Association, Past board member and Training & Education Committee and Ontario Land Development Council member. Frank was the recipient of many awards for custom homes he built and designed with many meeting R2000 standards.
After many years of community volunteering, in 2003 Frank became a Mason with Kempenfeldt Lodge #673, then a Shriner with Sheba Shrine Club. Upon our move to the Niagara Region in 2007, he joined Adnac Lodge #614 and became a very active member and board member of Niagara Shrine Club as well a Past President of Niagara 10 Inc. where he developed many friendships which he cherished. Frank had many fond memories travelling with Barb on their motorcycles as an active part of the Barrie HOG group until health restricted his ability to ride. His focus then became spending time with family and friends and locating, then checking out the best fishing places with his grandson Brock within the Niagara Region.
In honouring Frank’s wishes cremation has taken place. A Masonic Service will be held Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 1:30 at Niagara Shrine Club, 5621 North Street, Niagara Falls, L2G 1J4 followed by his Celebration Of Life from 2-4 p.m. Memorial donations to Shriners Hospitals for children – Canada or charity of your choice would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (between Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144. Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca
When Tomorrow Starts Without Me – Author Unknown
When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called
Mu name, and took me by the hand; The angel said my place was ready, In Heaven far above,
And that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But when I walked through Heaven’s
Gates, I felt so much at home, for God looked down, smiled at me, and told me “Welcome
Home” So when tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you
Think of me, I’m right there in your heart.
Sleep well my knight in shining amour, until I join your shining star in the night sky.