Beloved “When Calls the Heart” star’s sudden passing at 53 shocks fans—Here’s what happened
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The world of Hallmark’s When Calls the Heart was rocked last month by the sudden and unexpected loss of Nathaniel “Nate” Pelletier, a cherished member of the show’s family, who passed away at his home in Langley, British Columbia, at just 53 years old.
While Nate may not have been a household name to every viewer, his impact on the beloved series—and on those who knew him—was profound and lasting.
A Heartfelt Goodbye to a Behind-the-Scenes Hero
For many fans, When Calls the Heart is a comforting escape—a place where community, kindness, and hope always win the day.
But as any seasoned TV lover knows, it takes a village to bring such a world to life. Nate Pelletier was one of those unsung heroes, working tirelessly behind the scenes as a key member of the show’s transportation department.
He was responsible for the care and operation of the show’s iconic old-fashioned vehicles, ensuring that every carriage ride and Model T moment looked authentic and ran smoothly.
Nate’s dedication didn’t stop there. He even stepped in front of the camera, appearing as a taxi driver in several episodes—a fun Easter egg for eagle-eyed #Hearties.
But it was his warmth, generosity, and ever-present smile that truly made him a star among the cast and crew.
Tributes Pour In from Cast, Crew, and Fans
The news of Nate’s passing on April 11, 2025, sent shockwaves through the When Calls the Heart community.
Martin Cummins, who plays Henry Gowen, shared a moving tribute, recalling the countless hours spent with Nate on set—whether in deep conversation or comfortable silence.
“The Valley will not be the same without Nathaniel Pelletier. He was a gentle soul and it was my honor to call him friend,” Cummins wrote, painting a picture of a man whose presence was as steady and comforting as the fictional town of Hope Valley itself.
Also read: He wrote the ending himself—Esteemed producer breaks the news of his own passing
Production manager Mike Magnusson echoed these sentiments, describing Nate as “all heart, a true Unicorn, smashing every 14-hour day with a wide smile & endless cheer for all.” He added, “He saw people, and was always there with a kind word. He leaves a void of spirit we will not be able to replace.”
The official When Calls the Heart social media account also honored Nate, noting how much he loved interacting with fans at the Hearties Family Reunion and how his joy was infectious.
“He brought so much joy to the day…we’re sending love to all who knew and loved him. He will be missed greatly.”
A Life Full of Love, Laughter, and Generosity
Nate’s obituary offers a glimpse into the man behind the scenes—a devoted father, a loyal friend, and a lover of life’s simple pleasures.
He was especially proud of his daughter, Myhrsades (Murray) Jones, with whom he shared a deep love of music and adventure. Whether gifting her concert tickets or planning special trips, Nate’s greatest joy was making memories with his family.
His second great love was his work family at When Calls the Heart, where he was affectionately known as “N8.”
He was always ready with a helping hand, a hearty handshake, or a warm hug—sometimes even over his balcony rail. Friends remember him as a talented cook and baker, a poet with unmistakable handwriting, and a host whose door was always open.
A Reminder of the People Who Make TV Magic
For many of us, the passing of a beloved TV star is a reminder of the real people who pour their hearts into the shows we love.
While actors like Lori Loughlin and Jack Wagner may be the faces we recognize, it’s people like Nate Pelletier who help create the magic behind the scenes.
Their dedication, kindness, and camaraderie are the glue that holds a production together—and their loss is felt deeply by all who knew them.
Source: @wcth_tv / Instagram.
What’s Next for When Calls the Heart?
Season 12 of When Calls the Heart wrapped earlier this year, and the show has already been renewed for a 13th season, set to air in 2026.
As the cast and crew prepare to return to Hope Valley, Nate’s absence will be keenly felt—but his spirit, generosity, and work ethic will live on in every episode.
From all of us at The GrayVine, our hearts go out to Nate’s family, friends, and the entire When Calls the Heart family. May his memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to bring a little more warmth and light into the world—just as he did.
Read next: The heartbreaking story behind Jay North’s death at 73: Friends reveal the truth
Did you ever meet Nate at a Hearties Family Reunion? Do you have a favorite behind-the-scenes story from When Calls the Heart, or a memory of someone who made a difference in your life? We invite you to share your thoughts, condolences, and stories in the comments below!
Rest in peace, Nate. You will be missed, but never forgotten.
While Nate may not have been a household name to every viewer, his impact on the beloved series—and on those who knew him—was profound and lasting.
A Heartfelt Goodbye to a Behind-the-Scenes Hero
For many fans, When Calls the Heart is a comforting escape—a place where community, kindness, and hope always win the day.
But as any seasoned TV lover knows, it takes a village to bring such a world to life. Nate Pelletier was one of those unsung heroes, working tirelessly behind the scenes as a key member of the show’s transportation department.
He was responsible for the care and operation of the show’s iconic old-fashioned vehicles, ensuring that every carriage ride and Model T moment looked authentic and ran smoothly.
Nate’s dedication didn’t stop there. He even stepped in front of the camera, appearing as a taxi driver in several episodes—a fun Easter egg for eagle-eyed #Hearties.
Nathaniel “Nate” Pelletier, who worked on When Calls The Heart as both a taxi driver and a key member of the transportation department, passed away suddenly at home in Langley, British Columbia at age 53. Image source: @martincummins_ / Instagram.
But it was his warmth, generosity, and ever-present smile that truly made him a star among the cast and crew.
Tributes Pour In from Cast, Crew, and Fans
The news of Nate’s passing on April 11, 2025, sent shockwaves through the When Calls the Heart community.
Martin Cummins, who plays Henry Gowen, shared a moving tribute, recalling the countless hours spent with Nate on set—whether in deep conversation or comfortable silence.
“The Valley will not be the same without Nathaniel Pelletier. He was a gentle soul and it was my honor to call him friend,” Cummins wrote, painting a picture of a man whose presence was as steady and comforting as the fictional town of Hope Valley itself.
Also read: He wrote the ending himself—Esteemed producer breaks the news of his own passing
Production manager Mike Magnusson echoed these sentiments, describing Nate as “all heart, a true Unicorn, smashing every 14-hour day with a wide smile & endless cheer for all.” He added, “He saw people, and was always there with a kind word. He leaves a void of spirit we will not be able to replace.”
The official When Calls the Heart social media account also honored Nate, noting how much he loved interacting with fans at the Hearties Family Reunion and how his joy was infectious.
“He brought so much joy to the day…we’re sending love to all who knew and loved him. He will be missed greatly.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/DJNT2TWJvzi/
Source: @martincummins_ / Instagram.
Source: @martincummins_ / Instagram.
A Life Full of Love, Laughter, and Generosity
Nate’s obituary offers a glimpse into the man behind the scenes—a devoted father, a loyal friend, and a lover of life’s simple pleasures.
He was especially proud of his daughter, Myhrsades (Murray) Jones, with whom he shared a deep love of music and adventure. Whether gifting her concert tickets or planning special trips, Nate’s greatest joy was making memories with his family.
His second great love was his work family at When Calls the Heart, where he was affectionately known as “N8.”
He was always ready with a helping hand, a hearty handshake, or a warm hug—sometimes even over his balcony rail. Friends remember him as a talented cook and baker, a poet with unmistakable handwriting, and a host whose door was always open.
A Reminder of the People Who Make TV Magic
For many of us, the passing of a beloved TV star is a reminder of the real people who pour their hearts into the shows we love.
While actors like Lori Loughlin and Jack Wagner may be the faces we recognize, it’s people like Nate Pelletier who help create the magic behind the scenes.
Their dedication, kindness, and camaraderie are the glue that holds a production together—and their loss is felt deeply by all who knew them.
Source: @wcth_tv / Instagram.
He was best known for caring for and driving the show's old-fashioned vehicles, as well as being a much-loved colleague behind the scenes. Image source: Hallmark Show News / Youtube.
What’s Next for When Calls the Heart?
Season 12 of When Calls the Heart wrapped earlier this year, and the show has already been renewed for a 13th season, set to air in 2026.
As the cast and crew prepare to return to Hope Valley, Nate’s absence will be keenly felt—but his spirit, generosity, and work ethic will live on in every episode.
From all of us at The GrayVine, our hearts go out to Nate’s family, friends, and the entire When Calls the Heart family. May his memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to bring a little more warmth and light into the world—just as he did.
Read next: The heartbreaking story behind Jay North’s death at 73: Friends reveal the truth
Did you ever meet Nate at a Hearties Family Reunion? Do you have a favorite behind-the-scenes story from When Calls the Heart, or a memory of someone who made a difference in your life? We invite you to share your thoughts, condolences, and stories in the comments below!
Rest in peace, Nate. You will be missed, but never forgotten.
