Obituary of Heinz Hess

On August 10, 2021 our family and community lost a beloved member with the death of Heinz Hess at the age of 66. Heinz was born as the middle child to Walter and Wanda Hess in Dawson Creek on May 9, 1955. His sister Heidi was born the following year and brother Uli had been born six years earlier in Germany. Heinz was always full of adventure which resulted in mishaps! As a youngster, still trying to break the bottle habit, he broke his wrist, making his cast a deadly weapon for his older brother and cousins living next door. As he grew older he broke more bones due to his love of motor-cross and snow-mobile racing. Heinz always enjoyed a challenge and speed, winning many trophies and championships over his lifetime. Heinzs love for hunting began early when he would join his brother and cousins on their rabbit hunts in the creek by Brookside Cemetery, as his childhood home was close by. As he grew older, the size of game and the hunting expeditions also grew and he developed a close knit circle of hunting buddies. Heinz was also heavily involved in Dawson Creeks Sportsmans Club and was the third person to buy a lifetime membership. He was an individual who gladly shared his knowledge and expertise with anyone that showed an interest. In 1972 Heinz joined the staff at Lawrence Meat Packing Plant. From there, he improved his meat cutting skills which he used to become THE custom game cutter by hunters far and wide from the Peace River country and beyond. By early 1982 Heinz began his career with the Transport Canada fire fighters at the Dawson Creek Airport. In 1995 he transferred to the City of Dawson Creek Fire Department and in September of 2007, he achieved his Captains bars. On June 21, 2012 Heinz retired from the Dawson Creek Fire Department. This would finally give him the time to enjoy hunting, fishing and meat cutting to its fullest! Unfortunately this was cut short in December 2012 when he had to undergo surgery to have one of his kidneys removed. This however did not deter him from his joy of life and doing the things he enjoyed! Despite his ongoing struggles with his cancer during the ensuing years, Heinz always portrayed a constant positive and upbeat attitude. He definitely was a FIGHTER . . . and is a role model, of whom we are so proud! We would like to acknowledge and thank his care provider, Jovalin; the medical staff at Dawson Creek Hospital;. and the multitude of firefighters for all the support they have given to Heinz and his family. Due to Covid restrictions, a private funeral service was held for Heinz on 18 August 2021 at St. Pauls Lutheran Church. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Heinz to the Dawson Creek Firefighters Charitable Society, 10101 12a Str, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 3V7. Very Respectfully, Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium