September 23, 1937 – July 29, 2025 

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Eldean O’Hearn, fondly known as Eldean or Deanie, on July 29, 2025, at the age of 87. 

Eldean was born in Weston, Ontario, on September 23, 1937, to Mary and Arthur Ehnes. She was the youngest of four sisters and is lovingly remembered by her sister Joan Gunn. She was predeceased by her sisters Dorothy Wagg and Margaret Moir, her beloved husband Earl O’Hearn, her parents, and close family friend Ted Shigihero. 

Eldean will be deeply missed by her daughters Dana Ardiel (Mike) and Trisha Cruickshank (James), and her adored grandchildren: Hannah Cruickshank (Landon), Sydney Cruickshank, Dylan Cruickshank (Aly), and Austin Ardiel. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends across the country. 

Eldean graduated from Toronto Teachers College in 1958 and began her teaching career in Toronto. She married Earl on June 27, 1959, beginning a life full of ongoing adventures. Together, they made several cross-country moves, eventually settling in Alberta, where Eldean carried on her teaching career after obtaining her Education Degree from the University of Calgary. 

Eldean and Earl expanded their family through adoption, welcoming Dana in 1976 and Trisha in 1980. The family lived in Breton, Alberta, where Eldean taught Grade 1 and enjoyed horseback riding, skiing, and actively supporting her daughters in their many activities. In 1989, they relocated to Kingston, Ontario, where Eldean and Earl operated two coffee shops named after her — Deanie’s Donuts — before returning to Calgary in 1992. 

After Earl’s passing in 1994, Eldean built a rich life filled with friendships, golf, travel, and community. She shared many special years with Ted Shigihero, spending summers at Glennifer Lake golfing, socializing, and doting on their beloved dog Morky and fit in a tropical holiday together each winter. 

Eldean lived in Calgary until 2020, when she moved to Kamloops, B.C., to be near Trisha and her family. It was there she bravely faced a diagnosis of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). Even in the face of this challenging illness, Eldean remained vibrant, kind, and full of warmth—enjoying wine tastings, dog cuddles, and visits with loved ones. 

A naturally outgoing and energetic spirit, Eldean lived life fully. She loved dogs—especially Mitzi and Morky—and stayed active with swimming, bowling, billiards, bridge, card making and golf. She was a proud and faithful member of St. Thomas United Church, where she sang in the choir and knitted prayer shawls. She was also an avid reader and loved her time with her book club. 

Eldean’s life was defined by her sense of adventure and willingness to try new things, dedication to family, friendships, and strong faith. She was a teacher in every sense—both in the classroom and in life—and her legacy of love and strength lives on in all who knew her. 

A celebration of life will be held August 18, 2025, at St Thomas United Church in Calgary at 12.30 p.m. (100 Hawkwood Blvd. NW) Reception to follow. The livestream link for the celebration of life is https://youtube.com/live/1N_JemyU35g 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eldean’s memory to the SPCA, a cause close to her heart. 

You may offer a message of condolence at Cypress Funeral and Cremation Services for the O’Hearn family.

• Date : 2025-07-29
• Location : Kamloops