In Memory
Donna Lee Heck
November 27th, 1968 - June 17th, 2024
Donna
Lee (Sutherland) Heck passed away Monday, June 17, 2024. Donna was born November 27, 1968, the
youngest of 6 to Scotty and Gertie Sutherland.
She was raised on the family farm north of Cremona, where a love of
Jersey cows and cats began. After
graduation, she started a job at Olds Hospital as a dietary aide then as a
cook. Many great memories were made in
those 15 years until an opportunity arose across the parking lot. A move to Seasons Olds (aka Sunrise Village)
as a cook, then manager of food services, then General Manager for 20
years. Best Job Ever for Best Company
Ever!
Donna
married Christian Heck in 1992, then was blessed a daughter, Alysha in 1993;
and the New Year’s baby boy in 1998, Lance.
Along
with the joy of working with seniors, being a soccer, figure skating, hockey,
rugby, lacrosse and baseball mom and sometimes a coach and chauffer, were the
ultimate roles. Donna enjoyed crafting,
baking, decorating cakes and sugar cookies, cooking, spending time with family
and friends and Christmas was her favorite time of year.
Becoming
a Gramma to Savanna-Lee, Watson and Mia was the best thing ever. Donna will be remembered by her children,
daughter Alysha (Justin) Zieverink and son Lance Heck; grandchildren, Savanna-Lee, Watson and Mia; sisters, Bev Regner, Shirley
Harkness, Gayle Sutherland (Troy), Deb Chalupa; brother, Rob (Anne) Sutherland;
7 nieces, 6 nephews, 10 great nieces and 5 great-nephews; in-laws, Ed (Betty)
Heck, Gloria Kraft, Helen Croze, brothers-in-law, Micheal (Karen) Heck, Philip
Heck; and many great friends. She was predeceased
by nephew, Kyle Sutherland; parents, Scotty and Gertie, brothers-in-law, Art
Regner and Dan Chalupa.
In
lieu of flowers, donations made be made to The Alberta Children’s Hospital, www.childrenshospital.ab.ca ;
Olds Hospice, 4810 50 St., Olds, AB T4H
1E4; or Seasons Encore, 3300 57 Ave, Olds, AB
T4H 1C4 or perform a random act of kindness. Be grateful for the small things and have the
Best Day Ever Always!
A
Celebration of Life will take place at the Olds Legion, 5241-46 St. Olds,
Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 1:00 PM.
Share a message or memory
Denise Miller
2 months ago
I read Donna's obituary with great sadness. Donna was a grade 12 student in Cremona School when I was a first year teacher there. I lived in Elkton for most of that school year and also got to know Scotty and Gertie; such great people. Donna was a very friendly, outgoing student (and neighbour). Her accomplishments, especially when it came to anything food related, just blew me away. She was fun loving, but also very mature for her age. Donna would bring me a jar of Jersey cream to school...that cream was the best ever. My heart goes out to all her family; she will leave a big hole. With condolences, Denise (Marshall) Miller
Gerry and Linda Neumiller
2 months ago
Dear Chris,
We are so sorry to hear of your profound loss. We send you our
Love, Gerry and Linda
We are so sorry to hear of your profound loss. We send you our
Love, Gerry and Linda
bruce & carol smith
2 months ago
So sorry to hear of the passing of such a lovely lady. Our condolences to her family.
Faye Wallace
2 months ago
I met Donna when I brought my RDC students to Sunrise for their first patient contact rotation. She fed us lunch everyday and it was always delicious. I especially remember her butter horns made with mashed potatoes. I begged her for the recipe and she finally agreed to give it to me, but said, I was not allowed to share it or she would track me down and hurt me. I have never shared it to this day, but I will now as a tribute to Donna. She was truly an amazing cook and so personable that she was easy to love. Rest in Peace my friend.
leona verbonac
2 months ago
Heaven gained a beautiful angel I thought the world of her when I worked at seasons sympathy to Bev Regner and the rest of her family
Ann Marienhoff
2 months ago
I met Donna and Alysha, when they came for interview for childcare, through Olds and District Day homes, in 1993 .Donna and I found out we knew a lot of people , Donna being very easy to talk to, the half hour interview ran into 3 hours. And later Lance joined the family, both children , were at my house till they started school, a few years later the grand children attended my day home untill 2018, So I had the greatest pleasure ,of knowing and watching this family grow. And seeing them today, We did a damm good job! Donna. Forever grateful for the Christmas handmade crafts, some cut with a jigsaw. And the big thick sugar cookies , hand decorated with lots of icing. And the positive outlook on the world.
Fly High Donna, Land softly. Miss you.
Fly High Donna, Land softly. Miss you.
Mulholland Family
2 months ago
Donna was truly special to each member of our family. We each have our own fond memories of times she brightened our day with a smile or smart ass comment. From the first time I met her to the last time I talked to her she always made me laugh. She had a sincerity that is rarely experienced and made us all feel at ease. Our hearts are hurting along with you, as well as for you. Our thoughts are with you and wishing you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you have of her. 💞
Roxy &Steve
2 months ago
It is with a heavy heart, we send our deepest condolences to Donna’s family. She will be dearly missed by all that knew her. Her courage and determination to fight cancer was truly inspiring. Donna is free from pain now, fly high 🙏🏻😇dear Donna💙
Ruth Rutley and family
2 months ago
We as a family always have such fond memories of Donna and her love of jersey cows. She lite up many lives. Soar on high Donna you deserve the best.
Karen
2 months ago
Oh my heart hurts to write this....
I met Donna the night we welcomed our granddaughter Savanna-Lee into the world ...well Alysha did most of it!
She was super kind, funny and witty about it all...we laughed for hours that night., she was so proud of Alysha She was the best grandmother to all her grandchildren, and she loved her family and it was beautiful to watch over the years. Donna you will be missed dearly, I could never replace you or your cakes EVER...but man your cakes were famous! Fly high Donna, you look after the kids up there and I'll do my best down here. You were an amazing woman and I admired you more than you'll ever know.
Alysha and Lance, you had the best...I'm so sorry for your enormous loss, my condolences to all of your family ❤️
I met Donna the night we welcomed our granddaughter Savanna-Lee into the world ...well Alysha did most of it!
She was super kind, funny and witty about it all...we laughed for hours that night., she was so proud of Alysha She was the best grandmother to all her grandchildren, and she loved her family and it was beautiful to watch over the years. Donna you will be missed dearly, I could never replace you or your cakes EVER...but man your cakes were famous! Fly high Donna, you look after the kids up there and I'll do my best down here. You were an amazing woman and I admired you more than you'll ever know.
Alysha and Lance, you had the best...I'm so sorry for your enormous loss, my condolences to all of your family ❤️
Georgie Perigny
2 months ago
Thinking of all of Donna’s family and friends! Such a beautiful woman with a kind heart and a big soul! Donna is loved by many and will be dearly missed!
Gloria Ulry
2 months ago
I was so grateful for the kindness and compassion she showed to my mother during her time at Sunrise. Donna always had a wide smile and her humour could lightened the mood of a difficult client. Donna dealt with cancer with everything she had. She was always open to a good hug. She is missed.
Karen
2 months ago
Sometimes, there are no words… I think of Donna as an old soul. She always put every human she knew first. Her joy of her kids success, second to none. I loved playing crib with her at our Red Lodge picnics. The kids would play / float and between her, Barb and I, made sure they were well fed.. I will miss her so very much and know that she is in the right hand side!!🥰❤️🥲
Joan Heemeryck
2 months ago
I’ve known Donna through various ways, friends, Seasons, and more friends. She took fabulous care of my parents and they respected each other despite their differences. When she retired from Seasons, I kept the”best day ever” sticker and it remains on my bar fridge right where it reminds me to cherish each day and be happy for everyone and everything.! Thanks Donna for sharing that lesson with me ❤️
Karen & Jim Scott
2 months ago
Deb, our hearts break for you and your family. Glad you were able to spend this time with your sister and hope you find comfort in the memories your family has shared. Hugs and we are nearby if you need anything.
Carolyn Walker
2 months ago
I am so sad to hear the news of Donna's passing. I will always remember the fun we had at lacrosse games. She was one of the nicest people I have ever known. I will always think of her and have the "best day ever".
Deb, Kieran and Kodie Doetzel
2 months ago
Kodie went to Anne’s with Lance. My parents thought the world of her at Season’s. She brought such joy to the residents💕 I loved our visits when I would come to see my parents. A true gem. Sending our condolences. 💕
Taylor Elaine
2 months ago
This absolutely breaks my heart to be writing this message,
Donna you were one of the most beautiful people I have met when we catered together and something wasn’t quiet right she would say not to worry we’ll just do this (they won’t know the diff) and of course no one knew and I’d get a nudge from her. We were always going to start a catering company to take the world by storm, unfortunately life got in the way.
I always loved her cheeky comments, that contagious laugh and most of all always so honest, generous and compassionate with whatever she did.
Alyssa and family and Lance you know your mom will always be there for all you from above.
For now my friend, bless your heart and soul. Rest in peace. The world will be lost without out you.
Live your Best Life🙏♥️
Donna you were one of the most beautiful people I have met when we catered together and something wasn’t quiet right she would say not to worry we’ll just do this (they won’t know the diff) and of course no one knew and I’d get a nudge from her. We were always going to start a catering company to take the world by storm, unfortunately life got in the way.
I always loved her cheeky comments, that contagious laugh and most of all always so honest, generous and compassionate with whatever she did.
Alyssa and family and Lance you know your mom will always be there for all you from above.
For now my friend, bless your heart and soul. Rest in peace. The world will be lost without out you.
Live your Best Life🙏♥️
Sandi Jones
2 months ago
There was no bigger smile in Olds than that of Donna’s . Alysha and Lance your mom is an amazing woman and had such a big heart. Thinking of your family during this tough time. 🩵
Linda and Ken Hogg
2 months ago
Our thoughts are with the family. I have fond memories of Donna. She was a great babysitter, the kids only hid on her once. 🤣 Denise Miller and I snuck her into the Cremona bar somewhat before she turned 18. I always enjoyed her humour and pragmatic outlook on life. She will be missed. 🤗🤗
Kristine C
2 months ago
It’s been a long time since I’ve last seen your mom, but I know she’s always been kind, generous and compassionate. She always was to me.
Alysha, it’s where you get it from. It’s why you are such a good mom.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Alysha, it’s where you get it from. It’s why you are such a good mom.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Joyce Quaife
2 months ago
I met Donna when I went to work at the Olds Hospital. I was hired as she was going off on maternity leave. I remember her being a huge presence in the kitchen. She got things done and she was a lot of fun. Rest in peace Donna
Monica Arbour
2 months ago
I love you Donna! Our world is a little less bright now that you are gone! My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. May you rest in peace.
Valerie Schmidt
2 months ago
I have so many memories of your Mom in both the hockey and curling rink! Always with that wonderful smile on her face, and a cheeky remark and the best laugh! I enjoyed the spirit she brought to the room. She deserved more time to enjoy Her children and Grandchildren, and though she was robbed of that, I know her legacy will live on and on in the lives she touched, and the family she leaves behind. Donna, fly high, pain free, and rest in peace. You have earned your wings. I know you will be watching over all of those you loved and who loved you.
Lance and Alysha. My heart goes out to you. No doubt some of the hardest days of your lives. I wish you the very best going forward. My sincerest sympathy.
Lance and Alysha. My heart goes out to you. No doubt some of the hardest days of your lives. I wish you the very best going forward. My sincerest sympathy.
Cori Busby
2 months ago
My heart goes out to you all! Donna was the most genuine lady Ever! She could pull a positive out of any negative situation. Love you Donna, I will always remember to "have the best day ever " and will never forget you, my friend.
Cor- Bear
Cor- Bear
Lauren Weir
2 months ago
Your Mother looked like such a beautiful person inside and out. I’m so terribly sorry for your loss. Your whole family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending so much love. We are all here if you or anyone in your family need anything at this time. Xoxo
-The Sugden’s
-The Sugden’s