With love and affection for a life marked by faith, determination, and a remarkable perseverance, we announce the passing of Ghislain “Jess” Héroux on October 28th 2026, at the age of 80.
He was predeceased by his parents Roméo and Liliane Héroux, his brother Yvan Héroux, and sister-in-law Marlene Héroux.
He leaves behind his sisters Huguette Parcher, Lorraine Héroux, his brother Steve Héroux, sister-in-law Christine Héroux, and many nieces and nephews: Coriane (Scott) Cochrane , Loriane (Heinz) Huesmann, Danielle (Jody) Blanchard, James (Krista) Doyle, Jenifer Héroux (Jim), Steven (Laura) Héroux, Jason Doherty, and Bryce (Janice) Doherty, all of whom loved him unconditionally.
Jess was a kind and quiet man with a warm and generous heart. He was a man of faith, with an endearing sense of humour, a love of music, and an enthusiasm for all sports, especially watching his team the Montreal Canadiens, and the Masters. He also enjoyed the Encore Club events and his daily meals there. But above all these things, he was perhaps best known for his remarkable achievements as an endurance athlete. He completed hundreds of marathons throughout his lifetime and continued to run annually well into his 80s.
Over 50 years, even when faced with challenges including a stroke, knee replacements, and hip replacements, he accomplished what few could imagine: completing one remarkable 144 mile ultramarathon over two days, eight 100 mile ultramarathons, two 90 mile ultramarathons, ten 50 mile ultramarathons, as well as qualifying for and running the Boston Marathon seven times, and an Ironman triathlon!
His accomplishments were a source of immense pride for his family, who admired not only his extraordinary athletic achievements but also the determination, discipline, and enduring spirit he demonstrated throughout his life. His commitment and endurance were a remarkable example, letting us all know to never give up.
His life was an incredible journey, measured not only in the thousands of miles he ran, but in the love he shared with his family & friends and the memories they will cherish forever.
He will be fondly remembered for his gentle nature, his quiet presence, and the strength with which he approached life’s challenges.
In keeping with Jess’ wishes, a graveside service and burial will be held at Memorial Gardens in Burlington, On.
Sympathy Messages
What an amazing human being!
His athletic accomplishments were something else including the Boston Marathon!
His positive attitude, never complaining about his health during some very difficult times, everything was positive.
He will be missed R I P Jess, you will be missed.
- Patrick kiely, on
November 2, 2026
Toutes mes sympathies cousines Lorraine et Huguette ainsi qu'à Étienne....Repose en paix Jess !
- Réjeanne Neveu , on
November 2, 2026
My sincere condolences to Jess’s family and friends. Years ago, he joined the KL Running Club on a 10k recreational run. I had not met this senior gentleman before and was concerned that he might not be able to handle the distance so I looped back after a while and ran with him. The weather was a bit foul so I offered an alternate, shorter route that he could take. He told me that he would complete the 10k and not to worry or wait for him. I finished my run and then backtracked to be with him. His humble determination impressed me and we started to connect for runs on a regular basis. We later attended some events together in the KL area. He was never boastful of his amazing running accomplishments but over time shared some of his experiences. His strong determination to do what he enjoyed despite physical challenges will always be an inspiration for me and I’m sure many others.
Rest in peace my friend.
- Peter Georgeoff , on
November 2, 2026
Mes plus sincères condoléances à la famille. J'ai eu le privilège de rencontrer Jess à quelques reprises lors d'ultramarathons en Outaouais. Ce que je retiens de Jess outre sa déterminaton est sa gentillesse.
- Michel Gouin, on
November 3, 2026
Jess will be dearly missed by me and also the trail community in Hamilton. He was a lovely gentleman
We drove to many a trail race together he was like a big brother to me. 🤍🕊️
- Grace Panoff, on
November 3, 2026
J’offre mes sincères sympathies aux membres de votre famille ainsi quà tous les amis de la famille. Que Jess repose en paix!
- Jean-Marie Messier, on
November 3, 2026
Joyce and I are deeply saddened to hear of Jess' passing. We have known him for a long time starting with the Burlington Runners Club where he was a man of inspiration and generosity. His life has been an inspiring and unconditional. We have so many fond memories of him and his accomplishments, something we will cherish deeply. Our deepest heart felt condolences to his family.
- Joyce and Richard Zazulak, on
November 4, 2026
I was deeply saddened to hear about Jess' passing. We met out on the trails at Haliburton Forest and I will always remember his incredible grit, warm spirit and love for the sport. Sending the family strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
May my support warm your heart
- Debbie Mitchell, on
November 4, 2026
It was always a treat to meet Jessie on the trails and talk for a few moments.
- Steven, on
November 5, 2026
I'm sad to hear of the passing of Jessie. He was a high school class mate and remembered as a kind, quiet and lovely guy, well liked by everyone. Condolences to the family.
- Mary Jo Currie-Broughton, on
November 5, 2026
Jess inspired everyone he met at the start line and brought so much joy to our annual Haliburton trips. He will be incredibly missed. Sending my deepest condolences and love to his family.💔
- Jayne, on
November 5, 2026
In early years we bowled down at Mary's together, where we had many fun times, Rick knew him and his brothers, then he moved down south for many years and then on his return, we would meet and go over the good old days with smiles. He will be remembered for his courage, determination, & all his athletic accomplishments, didn't matter what the conditions were outside, he was walking (running). We certainly will miss our talks but am thankful for our Friendship...Sorry for the Family's loss...RIP Jess.
May my support warm your heart
- Rick & Judy (Cale) Gervais, on
November 6, 2026
Write a sympathy message:
