Peter Rodney “Rod” Heaton of Walkerton passed away peacefully on Monday, August 12, 2024, at South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Walkerton, in his 79th year.
He was born in Nottingham, England, to parents Harry and Hilda Heaton on July 5, 1946. Rod had an older sister, Janice, and brother, Anthony. The family moved to Derby, England, in 1953 where he would spend his childhood and adolescent years. Like his father, Rod pursued pharmacy at the University of London becoming a pharmacist (also known as a chemist in the UK) and earning his Doctorate PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry while studying steroids with Glaxo Pharmaceuticals. It was during this time that he gained UK membership of Mensa International. Eventually Rod moved to Canada, working as a pharmacist at Brown’s Pharmacy in Walkerton and was quick to become involved in his new community. He also worked as a pharmacist at the Walkerton Hospital and provided regional locum relief and belonged to many community groups; he was a Mason, Kinsman, member of the County Town Players and St. Thomas Anglican Church.
At home he loved to go biking, play video games, and was devoted to his cats. He hosted many family and friends from the UK and beyond over the years.
Predeceased by his parents and sister, Janice, he will be sadly missed by his brother, Anthony, extended family and many friends.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at Cameron’s in Walkerton. A livestream will be available through Rod’s memorial page at www.cameronfuneralhomes.com
As expressions of sympathy, donations to Saugeen Hospice in Rod’s memory would be appreciated. Donations and condolences may be made online at www.cameronfuneralhomes.com
