Star dies ‘suddenly at home’ at the age of 53

Nathaniel “Nate” Pelletier, a notable figure in the entertainment industry, has died at the age of 53.

Pelletier, an actor and employee of the transport department on the network’s When Calls the Heart, unexpectedly passed away on April 11 while residing alone at his home in Langley, British Columbia, as stated in his obituary. The cause of his death remains unknown.

The obituary states, “His kindness and remarkable dedication to work impacted numerous individuals.” He consistently offered assistance when required, often before anyone had to request it. He was sociable, took pleasure in meeting new acquaintances, and welcomed them with a warm smile and a strong handshake.

The individuals who survive Pelletier include his mother, Yvonne Langevin; his stepbrothers, Gordon and Brian Langevin; his stepsister, Teri Van-Ryssel; his godmother, Lee DeGoede; his nephew, Andrei; his brothers, Jeramie and Jason; his daughter, Myhrsades Jones; and his father, Perry Phillips.

In the 2014 film When Calls the Heart, Erin Krakow portrays Elizabeth Thatcher, a young teacher from an affluent background who relocates from the city to instruct in a small coal mining community during the 1920s. Pelletier, known for his recurring role as a cab driver on the series, referred to his colleagues as his ‘work-family,’ which he described as his ‘second greatest love’ in his obituary.

Earlier this month, Martin Cummins, who portrays Henry Gowen in the acclaimed series, paid tribute to Pelletier on Instagram with a sincere message.

I have recently returned from a bicycle ride on the bike that Gord and Nate assembled for me and the girls. I am currently enjoying the shade in Mexico under the awning that Nate assisted me in setting up, located in the woods near the old cabin. In his post, he included several images of his close friend and remarked, ‘I have spent more hours at work in the blue room, either in silence or conversing with Gord and Nate, than I have spent standing in front of the camera with the tape rolling.’ I have always regarded Gord as a paternal figure, while Nate and I were like his sons, exploring the town, spending time in the woods, and engaging in trivial conversations. Life is constantly evolving, and nothing remains unchanged. The Valley will not be the same without Nathaniel Pelletier. It was an honor to consider him a friend, as he was a genuinely kind individual.

The cast and crew were also grieving for Pelletier, as stated on the official When Calls the Heart Instagram page. Production manager Mike Magnusson characterized the actor as a ‘genuine Unicorn’ who approached each 14-hour workday with a broad smile and unwavering positivity for everyone.

Nate had a remarkable ability to connect with others, always offering a kind word. The void left by his absence is irreplaceable. We held you dear, Nate; your uniqueness was unparalleled. My friend, your absence will be profoundly felt.