It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Johan Van Heiningen, affectionately known as Johnny Wheels. Johan departed this world surrounded by the enduring grace of God—a presence that guided him through every chapter of his extraordinary life.

Born and raised in Bowmanville, Johan was the third of six siblings in a loving, close-knit family. He grew up attending the Salvation Army church, where he played the tuba in the band and was part of the Junior Soldiers. Though he parted ways with the church in his late teens due to differing beliefs, his relationship with God only grew stronger and more personal over time.

Johan was a man blessed with uncommon gifts. He credited God with giving him an incredible ability to learn by observation and to repair or build nearly anything—from cars to electronics—without needing formal plans. His skills were offered freely to those in need, and modestly to those who could afford it, driven more by love than profit.

In 1983, Johan was baptized at Faith Baptist Church in Oshawa, bringing joy to his mother and reaffirming his lifelong commitment to God, even if he often stood apart from formal doctrine. He lived his life by the simple, powerful principle that faith, not religion, is what matters most.

Johan faced immense health challenges, including a diagnosis of multiple myeloma and end-stage COPD, both of which he defied far beyond medical expectations. He often said, “Science failed, and God prevailed,” as he outlived doctors’ predictions by more than a decade. In the face of pain, seizures, wheelchair use, and eventual confinement to bed, Johan remained spirited, grateful, and faithful.

One of the most powerful moments in Johan’s life came in 2016 when, after praying for relief from excruciating pain, he awoke with complete healing and mobility. He stood, squatted, and touched his toes—things he hadn’t done in years—crediting the miracle entirely to God. From that day on, he carried a handmade walking stick as both a support and a sacred symbol of his conversations with the Divine.

Despite chronic pain and increasing immobility in later years, Johan’s heart remained open to joy, laughter, and connection. Weekly cribbage games with friends, surprise visits from Lori with flowers, and the comfort of streamed church services brought light into his days. He often spoke of the pain of loneliness, but never without equal mention of the kindness of those who still came by.

To those who knew him, Johan was a man of quiet strength, deep humility, remarkable talent, and unshakable faith. He was a living testimony to the power of God’s grace, love, and miracles.

He is survived by his loving family, including his daughter, grandchildren, stepchildren, extended family, dear friends, and his cherished community at White Oaks. Johan’s legacy lives on in every life he touched, every item he fixed, every story he shared, and every prayer he prayed.

Praise be to God for the life of Johan Van Heiningen—Johnny Wheels.

To read John’s full written story please visit: https://whiteoakschurch.com/meet-johnny-wheels