It is with broken hearts that we share the sudden and tragic loss of Matt Heder, who passed away on May 27, 2026 in a workplace accident at just 39 years old.

Matt was a devoted husband to Ally, an incredible father to his 8-year-old son Isaac, and a deeply loved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. Matt was a well-respected arborist in Fredericton and started his own company, Heartwood Tree Care, in 2021. He was the Executive Director of the ISA Atlantic Chapter and looked forward to annual conferences and climbing competitions with fellow arborists. His loss is being felt profoundly by so many people whose lives he touched in the community and abroad.

Above all else, Matt loved being Isaac’s dad. Everything he did was with intention and dedication to his family and to building a bright future for his son. Matt passed along his sense of adventure to Isaac; the two of them loved being outside, playing sports, studying geography, and traveling the world together. He took immense pride in being a father and was a constant, supportive role model to his adoring son.

In Matt's memory, our family is establishing the Heder Family Trust to provide long-term support for Isaac and help realize Matt's dreams for his son. Funds raised through this campaign will be used exclusively for Isaac's benefit and are intended to fully fund an RESP for his future education. Should donations exceed the amount required for the RESP, any additional funds will be held and invested by the Trustees for Isaac's long-term benefit in accordance with the terms of the Trust. John and Martha Heder will serve as Trustees and will administer all funds solely in Isaac's best interests.

During this unimaginable time, we are asking those who knew and loved Matt — and anyone moved by his story — to consider donating to support Isaac’s future.

No contribution is too small, and every act of kindness and support means more to our family than words can express. Thank you for helping us honour Matt’s life by supporting the little boy he loved so deeply.

With gratitude,

The Heder Family