John J. Heckman

John Joseph Heckman, Sr., of Pewamo, passed away at his home on September 22, 2024 at the age of 85. He was born on December 27, 1938, the son of Joseph and Dorothy (Schneider) Heckman. A devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, John was deeply rooted in his faith and community. He was a proud member of the American Legion Post #182 in Hubbardston. John dedicated much of his life to repairing farm equipment, including tractors and combines, he very much enjoyed the farming community. Known as a “jack of all trades,” he was always ready to lend a hand to friends and neighbors. In his leisure time, John found joy in fishing, playing cards, and creating cherished memories with his family. He will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved him.

Preceding John in death are his parents; sisters, Marie Fernholz, Joanne Ladiski, Jean (Louis) Schafer, and Theresa (Ed) Ladiski; father and mother-in-law, Wendell and Vera Peiffer; and in-laws, Jack (Lynette) Peiffer, Susie Barker, Mary (John) Devers, and Pete Peiffer. Surviving John are his beloved wife of 62 years, Sherry Heckman; children, John (Jackie) Heckman, Jr., Robert Heckman, Donald Heckman, and Joni (Mike) Jegla-Seaman; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; siblings, Jim (Ellen) Heckman, Ed (Joan) Heckman, Tom Heckman, Ken (Joyce) Heckman, and Joe (Ruth) Heckman; in-laws, Skip (Roxie) Peiffer, Tom (Doris) Peiffer, Joe (Penny) Peiffer, Rod (Vicki) Peiffer, Fred (Chris) Peiffer, Cindy (Pete) VanBeelen, Dean Peiffer, Dan Peiffer, Tony Peiffer, Kelly Peiffer, and Terry Peiffer.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Darrel Kempf at 10:30 a.m., Friday, September 27, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Pewamo. Rite of Committal will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4-8 p.m., with the rosary being prayed at 4:00 p.m. at the St. Mary’s Funeral Chapel, 210 N. Westphalia Street, Westphalia. For those wishing, contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #182 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of John. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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