Joseph "Joey" Heaps

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph “Joey” Heaps, age 52, who left us peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at his home in Toledo. Born on February 13, 1973, to loving parents Hugh and Suzanne (Wiezbenski) Heaps.

A graduate of Central Catholic High School, Joey dedicated 32 devoted years to The Blade as a district manager for the circulation department. His commitment to his work was matched only by his passion for sports. He was a loyal supporter of the Detroit Tigers and the Toledo Mud Hens. He traveled from Boston to Phoenix to catch many MLB games. He enjoyed the countless moments spent cheering for his teams and people watching. Too many moments to count. In his free time, when he wasn’t at a ball game, he was at a concert with his girlfriend and friends. This was another beloved past time of Joe’s. You could find him at the Marquee Theater for Starcrawler, The Magic Bag for Russian Circles, Pine Knob for A Perfect Circle, The Fillmore for The Black Crowes, The Footprint Center for Tool, and many more. A few times a year, Joe would make his way to the Phoenix area where he would enjoy spending time with his sister, brother-in-law who was like a brother, and nieces and nephew. The kids were very special to him. He was the best Uncle, and the kids are grateful to have so many memories with him. While there, he would enjoy hiking, catch a concert or ballgame, relax in the pool, and would take full advantage of the authentic Mexican cuisine available in AZ. Joe never turned down a taco.

His thoughtfulness and caring nature were never more apparent than when he took care of his parents during their times of illness.

Proceeded in death by his mother, Sue Heaps and his father, Hugh Heaps. Grandmothers Christine Wiezbenski and Alene Heaps, as well as Grandfathers Joseph Wiezbenski and Frank Heaps. Also proceeded in death by his cousin, Bailey Harold with whom he shares a special date. He is survived by his caretaker and girlfriend of 18 years and #1 Honey, Stephanie Prysiazny, sister Jennifer Price and brother-in-law, Neil Price. Nieces Delaney and Finley Price, and nephew Grady Price. Joe is also survived by many adoring aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends he held dear to his heart.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Joe’s too short but remarkable life on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Urbanski Funeral Home a Life Celebration Home, located at 5055 Secor Road in Toledo. Visitation will be held from 12-4pm, with a short service to follow at 4pm.

The family would like to thank the doctor and nursing staff at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor who prioritized Joe’s care in the months preceding his death. Also, a heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Northwest Ohio for the extraordinary care and comfort they provided Joe and his family in the most difficult of times.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Blood Cancer United, formerly known as The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.