Mississauga actor who appeared on ‘Heartland’ and ‘Designated Survivor’ dead at 33

Robert Cormier, a Mississauga-raised actor whose credits include American Gods and the long-running CBC series Heartland has died at age 33.

The funeral director at Ridley Funeral Home confirmed the death, but did not reveal a cause.

An obituary on the funeral home’s website described Cormier as “an athlete, an actor, and a great brother” whose memory will live on “through his passion for art and film.”

Cormier appeared on Heartland as Finn Cotter, the grandson of Duncan Fraser’s Al Cotter.

The Heartland production team said on social media they were “deeply saddened” by the news and described Cormier as a beloved member of the cast for two seasons.

CBC adds in a separate statement that Cormier “was a remarkable young man.”

Kevin Alberga, who coached football at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Secondary School, said Cormier was the quarterback on the team and a great leader and life-long friend to many of his teammates.

When Alberga’s own son was in the hospital he said Cormier came to visit often.

“He was a star player and a wonderful person,” said Alberga. “A very caring and compassionate man who never forgot his friends.”

Robert Cormier (centre) visited his high school football teammate Michael Alberga (left) in the hospital in 2016, Michael’s father Kevin is also pictured on the right.

Cormier’s credits also included guest appearances on the defunct CBS/Global series Ransom and ABC/CTV’s Designated Survivor.

“He had a passion for helping others and was always looking to achieve more,” the obituary read.

“He enjoyed movie nights with his family and looked up greatly to his father. He impacted many people throughout his life whether it was family, teammates and friends.”

Noel Ransome, The Canadian Press

Robert Cormier (centre) visited his high school football teammate Michael Alberga (left) in the hospital in 2016. Michael’s father Kevin is also pictured on the right.