Donald Heckman

Donald LeRoy Heckman was born March 22, 1923 in Minneapolis, MN, the son of Daniel and Mable (Hanson) Heckman. He was raised in the Twin Cities where he graduated from high school.

In 1942, Donald was united in marriage to Joyce (Sheldon). The couple made their home in Minneapolis and were blessed with three sons, Gary, John and Mark.  Donald began work on a production line for Honeywell. He later became a production manager at Durkee Atwood. In 1970 Donald purchased the Richfield Dairy Queen and operated it, with his family, until 1974. He became manager of Kenny’s Liquors in Bloomington and worked there until retiring in 1985.

Since 1951, Donald has kept a cabin on various lakes including, Osakis, Miltona and Carlos. He enjoyed living on the lake. Donald also enjoyed golfing, especially with his sons and friends. He loved music and singing. Donald was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings, Twins and Timberwolves. Food was always looked forward to by Donald; he loved BBQ or a plate of goulash.

Donald was a member of the Masons for many years and belonged to the Cataract Lodge #2 in Minneapolis.

Donald was a devoted family man and husband. He provided his family care, concern, support, and always, unconditional love. He was the best father and husband.

On Saturday, November 17, 2018 Donald died at the age of ninety-five years. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce Heckman; and one son, Gary Heckman. Donald is survived by his wife, Lorraine Heckman of Alexandria; two sons, Mark Heckman of Surprise, AZ and John Heckman and wife, Lorraine, of Surprise, AZ; John Heckman’s first wife, Doretta Heckman; grandchildren, Jon Heckman of St. Paul, MN, Sarah Ruhland and husband, Todd, of Lakeville, MN and Jessie Heckman of Faribault, MN; great grandchildren, Olivia, Brady, and Josie Ruhland; step-grandchildren, Diane Klupper and husband, Richard, of New Brighton, MN, Dave Anderson and wife, Gini, of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; great step-grandchildren, Kalen Lichtenberg and husband, John, Laurie Kay and husband, Charles, Brendan Glynn and wife, Judy, Steve Anderson and wife Courtney, Tim Anderson and wife Katie, and Anna Swirtzek and husband, Todd.

A memorial service was held Tuesday, November 20, 2018 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria, MN. Interment was in Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis.

Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria, MN.