Retired Fire Prevention Officer – Belleville Fire Department
Tim Vanhecke passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family in Cherry Valley, on Sunday, February 22, 2026, in his 66th year. Loving husband, best friend and soulmate of Lisa, father to Justin, Nathan (Chrystal) and Corbin (Bexx). Step father to Mathew (Emily), Beth (Jake) and Ben. Cherished Papou to Desmond, Sullivan, Weston, Lorelai and Amelia. Predeceased by his parents Edmond and Betty Vanhecke (nee Sharpe) and his brother Tom. Survived by his siblings Bradley (Cindy), Debbie (Harvey) and Penny (Robert). Fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews. Tim will be deeply missed by his close friends, Curt, Lori, Leanne and Andreas. Tim grew up on his family farm on Fry Road, Prince Edward County and attended the local public and high schools.  He left the area to pursue his career as a mechanic and also became a volunteer firefighter for Quinte West – former Sidney Township. Tim’s passion for firefighting, his dedication and commitment for saving lives led him to a full-time career as a Belleville City Firefighter. He attended the Ontario Fire College which led him into the role as Fire Prevention Officer. Following retirement, Tim continued to advance his education, obtaining several certifications to facilitate and support his dream in becoming a fire inspector with Advanced Fire Forensics. Tim lived his life to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to pursue what made him happy. He treated life as an adventure and poured his heart and soul into his pursuits. Tim enjoyed many hobbies which tended to involve anything with an engine, likely due to his earlier career as a mechanic. This included but never limited him to motorcycles, dirt bikes (in his earlier years), snowmobiles, planes and his other love, Berta the BMW. When he wasn’t traveling at speed, he enjoyed simpler things, such as seeing the world, gardening, fishing, hunting, and rooting around the property with his tractor. He was a member of the Prince Edward Trail Riders Snowmobile Club, Prince Edward Flying Club, and volunteered in different capacities with the Canadian Cancer Society. In keeping with Tim’s wishes, cremation has taken place.  A Time of Sharing & Memories of Tim will be held at the Rushnell Funeral Home – Picton Chapel, 33 Main Street, (613-476-2450) on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 2 pm with visitation for 1 hour prior. If desired, donations to Camp BUCKO or ALS Canada would be appreciated.  Online condolences at: www.rushnellfuneralhomes.com