Obituary
An incredible daughter, wife, friend, dance artist, and high school teacher, Heather Marian Saum passed away on September 12, 2022, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Toronto at the age of 46.
Proudly, Heather was raised in Pilot Butte Saskatchewan. Heather never dwelled on the breast cancer that ended her life far too early. She was busy embracing life to the fullest and giving her love, creativity, energy and zest to her family, friends, colleagues, and students. Heather completed her Master of Arts Degree at York University in 2006. She taught in the Toronto District School Board for over 15 years.
Heather is survived by her parents, Lucille, and John Saum; her brother Jay and his wife Cara, and niece Emily; her Aunt Linda and Uncle Wayne; her cousins, extended family, and friends; and her devoted husband, Michael McGillion. Heather’s leadership in dance, her energy, and her outstanding mentorship influenced hundreds of young people to excel and to express themselves creatively, on their terms. A force for good, an indomitable spirit, and a remarkably uplifting human being, Heather will be forever loved and adored by all who knew her.
Heather’s advice to all: “Dance like no one’s watching!”. Heather, you are beautiful. Thank you for advising us, loving us, and for making us better people. We are following your lead, my love, now and forever.
Friends and family are invited to join at the Cardinal Funeral Home – Annette Chapel (92 Annette Street, Toronto, Ontario, M6P 1N6) Tuesday September 20th from 6-9pm for a visitation and a gathering in honour of Heather’s life.
Keeping with Heathers wishes, in lieu of flowers, it is requested donations be made to The Princess Margaret Foundation - Breast Cancer Research and Etobicoke School for the Arts - Dance Department
Visitation
Date
September 20, 2022
September 20, 2022
Location
Cardinal Funeral Home - Annette Chapel
Cardinal Funeral Home - Annette Chapel
Time
06:00 PM - 09:00 PM
06:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Memo
At the request of the family, please wear a mask while indoors.
Service
Burial / Entombment / Cremation
November 12, 2023
My heartfelt condolences to Heather’s dearly beloved family and friends. Thinking of Heather today (November 12, 2023) which would heave been her birthday.
I had the pleasure and honour of knowing Heather in the late 90’s while she and my son, Joel Thomas were dating. She already felt like one of the family. Her zest for life and contagious laughter filled me with joy.
She brought sunshine wherever she went. When they broke up, her sunshine went with her to shine on others.
I’m sad to say I had lost track of Heather over the years. I was told of her passing not long ago. Reading the many tributes and messages made me happy to know she realized her dreams, married her soulmate, Michael, and enriched many people’s lives.
She truly “danced like no one was watching” and did it to her own tune and timing.
A beautiful woman, a treasure beyond compare…she blessed all who she came in contact with. She is definitely missed. Looking forward to when we meet again. ❤️🙏
October 07, 2022
When I think of Heather, I see and feel this huge glowing smile, so generously radiating into the world. No matter the context, Heather was always ready to take on the world with big reaching, open arms. She brings such an incredible fire in her creativity. There is also this very kind, softness, and deep empathy that Heather had, she was equally ready in the same way to listen and to be there for you. Every class with Heather was like a huge exhilarating dance party. Heather, I love you so much and I miss you and I will always hold you deeply in my heart. Michael, we have never met, I hope to meet you some day, and I hope you have the support and love from this huge community that Heather had amassed. I am sitting here, thinking about Heather and thinking about Michael this morning.
I am sorry.
Please take care.
I send my love, condolences, my deep respect, holding my heart for you and for Heather.
September 29, 2022
I had the privilege of being taught by Ms Saum in my grade 10 year at esa. While I was not a dance major, she had introduced an open jazz dance elective, encouraging students across all majors and all dance abilities to join and learn a passion and confidence for the stage. She was so inclusive, encouraging and really poured so much genuine love in the classroom and on stage. Her energy was unmatched. I was lucky to have worked alongside Ms Saum in grade 11 while stage managing and supporting tech crew for the many dance and other performances during that year. She helped me develop an interest for working behind the scenes and made all of us backstage crew feel respected and valued. Her thank you cards after the end of shows, were such a kind gesture. When I co directed a production in grade 12, Ms Saum enthusiastically volunteered to help support the front of house and anything with the show. I will always remember her bright smile and incredible passion, professionalism and dedication. Sending my heartfelt condolences to your entire family, what a tremendous loss.
September 28, 2022
Heather taught both my children over the past seven years that I've been a parent at ESA. She had an impact on them both: her passion, vibrancy, enthusiasm and energy shone through, as did her smile and warm welcome every time I saw her at a school event. I was really struck with how she went above and beyond with my one daughter to make her feel included, involved and loved during a rough patch. I'll never forget that compassion. Our deepest condolences.
September 27, 2022
Mike I am so sorry for your loss. Heather was indeed a vibrant special woman. I remember how lovely your wedding was, seeing the two of you dance was so special. Hold these memories close during this difficult time.
September 26, 2022
Sending our deepest condolences to Michael and Ms. Saum's family. My daughter has been a dance student of hers at ESA for the past four years since grade 9 and has been forever impacted by her enthusiasm and dedication to her student's. My daughter has truly been inspired to dance throughout her day "like no ones watching." Ms. Saum's passion and teaching has had a tremendous impact and we feel in great gratitude to her. Our thoughts are with you.
September 23, 2022
My deepest sympathies to you Michael and all your family members. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you!
September 22, 2022
Heather sucked life's marrow to the end and went out dancing. She packed more joy, love, and laughter into her 46 years than most people do in a life twice that long. She lives on forever in the lives of all those who were fortunate enough to know her, and in the lives that those fortunate people touch, in outgoing ripples never ending. Her life mattered, and continues to matter, and the ripples of love and joy and beauty that she brought into the world will continue to spread through the world forever. She will be deeply missed, but never truly gone.
September 21, 2022
I had the privilege of being taught by Heather Saum for four years at Oakwood Collegiate Institute. What started as a simple affinity for dance transformed into a lifelong passion and creative outlet for me, and I owe that to Ms. Saum. Because Ms. Saum was more than just a dance teacher: she guided, protected, and supported us, and always went out of her way to give us the best experiences possible.
When I think back to that time, I'm in awe of how impactful her teaching style was. The values she instilled in the classroom were that of collaboration, open-mindedness, and inclusion. She encouraged individuality and always gave us the agency we needed to grow as creators, while also sharing her expertise which allowed us to become better dancers. Her energy was unmatched, her humour sharp and witty, her passion for dance and devotion to her students uncomparable. Even after I graduated high school and continued to pursue dance in university, Ms. Saum came out to support me by coming to my end of year dance show, which meant the world to me.
To Ms. Saum's family, friends, and loved ones, I'm sending my deepest condolences to you during this unimaginably difficult time. The world has lost a truly special person.
To Ms. Saum - thank you for everything. The lessons you taught me, in both dance and life, continue to stay with me. When I dance, I think of you, and that will never change. Your legacy lives on through all the lives you touched with your beautiful soul.
September 21, 2022
Heather left a big impression on so many people.
We met a very long time ago working at Boston Pizza east.
I enjoyed her friendship over the years.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.
I know Heather will be having a big dance party upstairs.
Hugs to all who knew her.
September 20, 2022
My deepest condolences to Heather’s family at this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 20, 2022
Heather and I were on the Oakwood staff for just one year but she left a great impression on me of her energy, her professionalism, her way of being with everyone. I am so sorry to know of her loss and I send my deepest condolences to all who loved her.
September 20, 2022
Ms. Saum was always so kind and full of energy. She was my teacher in grades 10 and 11 at ESA. I remember joining the zoom for her Jazz elective on the first day, and feeling so amazed that even through the computer I fully felt how bright and joyful she was. I always left that class feeling happy. I will miss her very much. My sincere condolences to her family.
September 20, 2022
Sending love and condolences to Heather’s family in this time of loss and grief. What a loss it is. I am so sad to lose Heather as a friend and colleague. Heather was a dedicated educator with an unwavering passion for the arts. As a dance educator she was a fierce advocate for all students and had a deep understanding of the transformational power of arts education. Heather and I taught additional qualification courses for teachers together. She was an exceptional leader. I will miss Heather so much - her smile, her laugh and her endless optimism.
September 20, 2022
Heather and Mike moved in next door over a year ago and has been amazing neighbors. Heather was always so joyful, kind and friendly. I always admired their loving relationship and care for each other. My mother and I have only known Heather for a short time but she has a special place in our hearts.
September 20, 2022
Mike, I was so saddened to hear of your loss. It sounds like Heather was an amazing human being and deeply impacted those that were fortunate enough to know her. My family and I will keep you and your loved ones in our thoughts at this difficult time.
September 20, 2022
I had the absolute pleasure of being a student in Ms.Saum's first dance class at Oakwood. She had such a spunk and light about her that was contagious. I know myself and my fellow classmates will always remember her dedication and passion for dance and to make each of us feel seen. I last saw her at the 10 year anniversary of the dance department at OCI and I was so happy to see her in her element once more. My deepest condolences, thank you for sharing your positivity and lovely spirit, we will miss you.
September 20, 2022
Dear Mike and Family, We are deeply saddened by your loss. Heather was an inspiring leader in the classroom and contributed to her creative community in such profund ways. I know that her spirit and delightful personality will ripple through our lives for many years to come. Please accept our love and support during this terribly painful period. With much thanks for Heather's light in this world.
September 20, 2022
Heather and I met in Paris at the gym. We were both nannies, we were blocks from each other and we were inseparable for the time we shared there. Heather and I spent many long nights drinking cheap wine from the little corner store at the bottom of my flat. We played fun music and Heather wowed me with her dance repertoire and I taught her about the Ministry of Silly Walks, which she devoured and excelled at creating new silly walks. We traveled with a group called "Nightlife.fr" and visited the top clubs of Paris and photographed their nightlife. Heather often impressed the reserved french women when she'd pull out a chair and perform the most fun and amazing dance on the dance floor if no one was out making the best of it and soon the best night would unfold at her prompting. Depending on the mood she was when asked where she was from (she always referenced Regina as it was a bigger city) she would either say very sweetly with a french accent "Regine" or strongly in the funniest Heather way "re-GINE-NA" and we would bust out laughing!! Heather threw me a surprise party on my 25th in Paris with all our friends! I mean, who does that?! Heather did. When I met a wonderful man but it didn't go well, she woke me one morning and asked what I was doing. I told her I was dreaming about him, to which she replied "Oh for goodness sake. My blowdryer broke this morning. Go see him. Today. Or you have to buy me a new blowdryer.". I sleepily agreed and later realized I couldn't afford to buy her one. Off I went. We are married now!! Thank you Heather!!! When our time in Paris came to an end, Heather hosted a beautiful dinner with our friends. I still often make her green bean, pine nut and chevre salad and think of her each and every time. She was an awesome cook and always just threw things together in a magical way. The day she left for Bahrain, her next adventure, I was devastated. We both cried and knew it would never be the same. The time we had spent together was so exceptional and beautiful and full of joy and love for one another. I can still see her waving out the back of that taxi in Paris through my tears. We had a wonderful visit with Heather in 2004 on our way back from France after we married, and she visited us once in Calgary and we met up in Lethbridge one time. Otherwise it was phone calls mostly. I have a gorgeous blanket she gave us as a wedding gift, which she bought in Sri Lanka I believe. A frog painting she picked up for me as she knew I loved frogs. A burlesque scarf which I always laugh when I look at or wear - so Heather. The reminders of her are everywhere. Anytime I ever called her with a problem she would say "hmph" pause and then "would you like my opinion (or advice)" and I would always say yes! I loved the ease of her personality. Her love for all the art and beauty of this world. Her freedom of expression and her wild crazy self. She was classy, wild, fun, loyal, kind, thoughtful, generous and accepting. She was a perfect friend and I am so devastated she's gone. That her life was cut short. I recall her being angry that her aunt had passed so young and healthy from the same cause. I know it weighed heavily on her even in our 20's. My last message from Heather she was thanking me for a nice message I left her. She began to cry. She, in her Heather way, said "anyways bye" then paused and said "yeah I am still a softie". I loved my soft beautiful friend. I wish I had been there for you. I don't know how so much time passed and I didn't know you were facing this mountain. I will love and cherish you and our times together forever Heather. To Michael and her closest family and friends, my heart is broken for you all. Such a light and force of goodness gone far too soon. I am praying for you to be comforted by the knowledge she lived every day to the fullest and made the best of her time here on earth and changed so many lives for the better. Goodbye my beautiful friend, I love you. See you again.
September 19, 2022
Ms. Saum was the first ballet teacher I had at ESA. She always made every student feel safe and gave the best motivational talks before stepping out to perform. No matter how tired I was, every morning I saw her she was smiling ear to ear which just brought a smile on my face and everyone around me. She was inspiring and energetic, pushing me to be my best self. Ms.Saum encouraged me to join DancESAtion, which was one of the best decisions I ever made. She inspired me to pursue dance after ESA. The love she had for dance and her students will be missed but never forgotten. Her smile will live forever in my mind, heart and dance. May her soul find peace and know how much of an impact she has made on so many people. My thoughts are with her family and friends.
September 19, 2022
Dear Mike,
It was my honour to work with Heather at ESA. As wonderful a teacher as she was, she was even more amazing as a human. Always smiling and happy, she was a joy to know. Please accept my sincerest and deepest condolences for your loss.
September 19, 2022
Dear Mike and family,
I am devastated with the news about Heather’s passing. May the memories of her joy and pleasure in life give you comfort.
September 19, 2022
Dear Michael,
I was saddened to learn of Heather's passing. My thoughts are with you and your family. Wishing you peace, calm, and strength for the times ahead.
September 19, 2022
Dear Mike, I am so very sorry for your loss and send you and your family prayers for your strength and peace. May you always be comforted by memories of the richness of the life you and Heather shared. You'll be in my thoughts.
September 19, 2022
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
September 19, 2022
Dear Mike and Family, I was so saddened to hear of Heather's passing. I know her soul will live on in the hearts and minds of those who celebrated life with her and were blessed by her beauty and grace. Our heart felt condolences Mike to you and Heather's family. God Bless.
September 19, 2022
Dear Mike and family, it fills me with sadness to hear about the passing of Heather. I worked with her at OCI and can honestly say that she was an inspirational person and incredible teacher! My most sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy on your loss. I am thinking of you all at this most difficult time.
Jason, Gladys and Samuel
September 19, 2022
Dear Mike
Please accept my condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 19, 2022
Dear Mike and Family,
We send our deepest condolences as you remember and celebrate Heather’s life.
As an oncology community, we offer our unwavering support to you and your family during this time of reflection.
Sincerely,
The JHCC Oncology Leadership Team
September 19, 2022
The passing of Heather was such sad news to hear. Heather was single-minded in her devotion to her students, their success, and their enjoyment of the courses she taught. Her bright smile was ever-present no matter the personal challenges she faced. She exemplified what is best in a teacher and will be missed by all of us whose lives she touched.
September 19, 2022
I had the pleasure of knowing Heather as a young child and feel very privileged to have coached her figure skating. She put so much energy into everything she did and always brightened up the rink even on those early morning skates. I always felt she was the "teacher type" and I have learned she flourished in that role. She has shared her passion for dance and touched so many lives. She will be missed greatly. To the Saum family, I hope the many happy memories you have of Heather comfort you at this time. I am so sorry for your loss.
September 18, 2022
Mrs. Saum taught me dance in the 10th and 11th grade back in 2010-2011 At Oakwood CI. Years laters I will never forgot her smile and how energetic and positive she was. I remember when we got the news she had cancer because she would’ve been absent from class. We all cried weeping like babies!!!! She never allowed it to get her down she would show up when she was better and show out like nothing ever happened. Mrs. Saum not a day goes by that I don’t remember you telling me to “point and flex” and feet:( I promise I speak of you like you as if I just left highschool. Your smile will forever live on in my head. May your soul Rest In Peace. And may God be with your family.
September 18, 2022
Condolences to all who had the pleasure of meeting this beautiful young lady! Heather Rest In Peace lady.
September 18, 2022
Dear Mike, I am so sorry. Heartfelt condolences to you and Heather's family and friends.
September 17, 2022
My sincere condolences to Michael and the Saum family. May she Rest in Peace.
September 17, 2022
I first met Heather in Bahrain, one of her first teaching positions. As a fellow Canadian overseas we worked, holidayed,parried, and laughed a lot. We too eventually moved back to Toronto and resumed our friendship. Heather was such a joy to be with and we will miss her but never forget her.
September 17, 2022
Heather radiated sunshine and positivity! She spent many years volunteering with Dance Ontario, which is where we met. Her love of dance and commitment to mentoring her students was beautiful. My most sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.
September 16, 2022
Our sincerest condolences to Heather’s family. As a little girl 5 years younger than Heather in the same figure skating club in Pilot Butte, I’ll always remember her for keeping me warm during our ice carnivals before it was my turn to skate. As we grew up I remember her for her leadership in the choreography of our school musicals. She was certainly passionate and lively in what she did from a young age and we are all devastated to hear of her passing. Much love to the family.
September 16, 2022
My condolences to Michael and the family of Ms. Saum, I can’t imagine what you all are feeling. Ms. Saum was the first person to really believe in me and what I could do, she always had a smile on her face every single day and never failed to light up a room. if it wasn’t for her I don’t know where I would be. She may be gone but her light will shine forever like a star in the sky. I will never forget you Ms. Saum you will truly be missed. To me you being gone doesn’t feel real, may you rest in peace, you deserve it.
September 16, 2022
Dear Michael, and the family of Ms. Saum. She was the fire in my candle of dance and she was the one who pushed me to pursue it. She never stopped loving her students and giving us her beautiful smile. Every morning she would greet us with “hi beauty’s” and that alone kept us going, when we didn’t have energy to dance, she kept us going. Heather Saum, my dance teacher, my inspiration, my friend, you will be missed and forever loved. May you Rest In Peace.
September 16, 2022
Condolences to Ms. Saum's family, my daughter was a student of hers at ESA and although I didn't know her well what I do know is that her passion for the arts/dance and her students was evident. She was supportive, caring, understanding, and always in her student's corner to offer advice and leadership when they needed it. She will be missed. Love and prayers to all who knew her.
September 16, 2022
Dear Michael and family. I am so sorry to hear of Heather’s passing. I know you made every moment of life count and despite the many challenges, there were always dreams and goals ahead that inspired you. Michael, you’ve been a rock along the way and your love as a couple is a role model to me and I’m sure many others. I’m so sorry for your profound loss.
September 16, 2022
Dear Mike and family,
Although I did not know Heather personally, I did get to know her through my conversations with Mike about your wonderful life together. It was clear to me that Heather was a special person - a dedicated teacher, an artist and performer, a thoughtful daughter/family member/friend/colleague and a wonderful partner. Please cherish all of those memories as a way to celebrate your time together and the positive impact Heather had on the lives of so many. My thoughts of comfort and love go out to you and your family. Your friend - Sandra
September 16, 2022
Ms. Saum was an incredible teacher, person, and someone who I have deeply looked up to since I first met her in grade nine. She was a bundle of energy and passion that never failed to make me feel welcome, loved, and valued as a dancer and person. I will be forever grateful for everything she's done to shape me into the person that I am today and I will carry her teachings with me for the rest of my life. The ESA community and beyond will always be filled with her legacy as we continue to share her passion for dance and the arts.
Sending my condolences and so much love to Ms. Saum's friends, family, and all those fortunate to have gotten to know her. She will be greatly missed!
September 16, 2022
Hello Mike, thinking of you at this difficult time. Hoping the memories you have will give you strength in moving forward.
September 16, 2022
"A force for good, an indomitable spirit and an uplifting human being" Heather embodied all the best in the human sprit. You know that she will be helping you through this time of loss. My deepest sympathies and Love to all of you.
September 16, 2022
We are so sorry to hear this sad news, our deepest condolences.
September 15, 2022
My deepest condolences to Heather's family. I worked with her years ago as a dance student at York, and then more recently in my courses for teachers. She was always joyous, curious, dedicated, and inspiring. Heather was one of those students that made me delighted to be teaching. I am sure she was so loved and respected by her students and colleagues. She will be missed!
September 15, 2022
Michael and family, please accept my sincere condolences for your loss.
September 15, 2022
To The Saum Family - my deepest condolences & heartfelt sympathy on your loss of Heather!
September 15, 2022
Heather absolutely created a safe, supportive, creative environment for my daughter and all the dancers at ESA. The work they created together was absolutely incredible not just creatively but emotionally. I will feel indebted to her forever and am so sorry she is gone. My deepest condolences to her family and friends and the countless students she inspired.
September 15, 2022
Dear Mike and family, please accept my most sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy on your loss. I am thinking of you all at this most difficult time.
September 15, 2022
I am so sorry for you loss. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
September 15, 2022
what a gorgeous, positive, passionate human being.
September 15, 2022
Irene and I can still picture the two of you dancing in Sleeping beauty this past Christmas. Heather was an inspiration for her courage and spirit, you for your dedication, and the two of you for your devotion to each other. Her legacy will live on with all her family, friends and the students whose lives she shaped.
September 15, 2022
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Heather
She will be missed but for ever remembered
September 15, 2022
I am so sad to hear that Heather has passed. She was a bright light and lovely human being. Her colleagues and students saw her goodness and passion for teaching and dance. When Heather was in the hallways or classrooms you could feel the positive energy and possibilities for the day. Her contagious smile would draw you in every time. It was an absolute privilege and gift to have had the opportunity to work with Heather.
My deepest condolences to her family.
Renata Gonsalves
September 15, 2022
My deepest condolences to Mike and his family and friends for their loss. I had the opportunity to meet Heather through being a faculty member with Mike and she left an indelible impression on me. Such a lovely, radiant, and kind person! I am sending everyone impacted by her loss my absolute best.
September 15, 2022
Dear Michael and Family, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved spouse. I hope beautiful memories of your time with Heather will give you strength at this challenging time.
September 15, 2022
Rest in peace Heather Saum. My deepest condolences to your family, friend and students. Your energy, spirit and joy will be missed. Thanks for being your Awe-saum self! Keep dancing like no one is watching.
September 15, 2022
Love and condolences to Michael and the Saum family. We were friends since our Girl Guide trip to Ireland in 1991, what energy and zest for life Heather shared with everyone she met. Sadly the last time we saw each other was at her wedding. Forever remembered.
September 15, 2022
I will miss Heather dearly. Her light shined bright and her positive spirit was infectious. I am a better person for knowing her. There is a big hole where she once was only moments ago. My sincere condolences to her husband Mike and family. May you find solace in her memory. God bless.
September 14, 2022
My heart goes out to you at this difficult time. I am thinking of you and your family and sending caring thoughts your way.
May the memory of Heather live on in all of us. Her positive spirit and amazing attitude will be forever remembered.
Rest easy Heather
September 14, 2022
Dearest Michael and family,
We are sending you our most heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your beloved wife Heather. Trust that her love will always sustain you along grief’s journey and her memories will lead you to an eventual peace.
All our love,
Shelley & David
September 14, 2022
So sad to hear of Heather’s passing. I remember many fun times had together on the farm during high school. She was always so much fun! I can picture even now her smile and the mischievous look in her eye! My condolences to her family and all those who love her. May her joy and light live on her her memory.
September 14, 2022
Our deepest condolences
September 14, 2022
I’m so sorry to hear about Heather’s passing. I was a University of Regina friend and we danced together too. My sincere condolences.
September 14, 2022
I’m so saddened by Heather’s passing. Heather was my mentor teacher during my placement and I cherished all we shared during that pivotal time in my life. She helped me so much as a new teacher, even got me my first job. I’ll cherish our conversations about education and the time we shared laughs over drinks. She was one of the hardest most determined people I know and equally generous, funny and talented. My deepest sympathies to her family. Her loss is certainly felt by so many.
September 14, 2022
R.I.P you grew up in a perfect little town dance with the angels condolences to the family
September 14, 2022
So very sorry to the Saum family on Heathers passing, may she Rest In Peace ❤️
September 14, 2022
I have no words to express the deepness of my sorrow for the loss of Heather. She was my beloved friend and dance colleague. We taught together at Oakwood and remained friends ever since. My deepest sympathies to Michael and family. My heart is with you in this very challenging time.
September 14, 2022
Heather was a year above me at York. I remember her leadership, kindness, care and compassion. I had the great honour of teaching a few of her former high school dance students last year at York and I could tell how much she was loved and appreciated by the way they spoke of her. She was a a beautiful person. My sincere condolences to her loved ones.
