Albert Geoffrey Hearn, a long time beloved church member, peacefully went to be with his Lord at Shepherd Village after an accomplished and full life. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Lilly (Turner) and his oldest son Robert (Yvonne). He leaves his devoted friend Myrtle McElroy and his family Geoffrey (Dorothy), Faith (David Smith), grandchildren William and Phillip Hearn and their mother Betty Hearn, Jennifer and David Hearn, Cameron, Matthew and Fraser Smith as well as 7 great grandchildren. He will be missed by his family, friends and many associates.

Known as Al to business associates or Geoff to friends and family, he grew up in Toronto’s Kensington Market area, wed Lill and moved to Timmins to deliver milk by horse and wagon. He returned to Toronto to deliver for Brown’s Bread where he became involved in workers rights as an organizer, recording secretary then business agent. Starting in 1946 Mr. Hearn became involved in Service Employees International Union (SEIU) serving as President of the former SEIU Loc. 204 (1950-80) and International Vice President (1955-1980). He was instrumental in setting many of the current Ontario labour laws concerning health care workers. He fought for and won a decent living wage for the many workers in the health and service industries. Under his leadership the SEIU grew from 1,000 to 60,000 members in Canada making it one of the largest labour affiliates in Canada.In addition to his service with SEIU he was awarded the Centennial medal, served as a Director of Ontario Hydro (1981-92), a trustee the Royal Ontario Museum, governor of University of Guelph and Centennial College, member of the Canada Employment and Immigration Advisory Board and served as a labour arbitrator.

Throughout his life he played an active role in several churches including Agincourt Baptist Church and Dorset Park Church. He loved music, played in a Salvation Army band, was member of the Singing Pilgrims and directed a children’s choir. He had a love for theatre, bowling, Blue Jay baseball and story telling. He generously supported many causes.

A special thanks to the Shepherd Village staff for their special care in dad’s last years.