May 9, 1938 – October 13, 2021
Ronald Lee Heck, 83, Franklin, Ind., formerly of Sheridan, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday evening, October 13, 2021. Born May 9, 1938 in Sheridan, he was the son of the late Donald James and Ruth (Bingham) Heck.
Ronald was a 1957 graduate of Sheridan High School and continued his education at Hanover College. He was a Sales Engineer for Joachim Machinery for 25 years, retiring in 2001.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army.
Being involved and committed to the community was a mindset that served Ronald well throughout his life. He was an active member of both the Sheridan Rotary Club and the Sheridan Jaycees. While his kids were growing up, he took the time to be a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader, as well as a baseball coach for 17 years. Ronald’s strong faith led him to be an active member of the Sheridan First Christian Church, and later in life, the Victory Christian Church in Franklin.
Ronald was a dedicated family man. No matter what the occasion, family always made it better. He loved taking the boys on fishing and camping trips, and never seemed to get tired of traveling. Ronald had a love for motorcycles and was always able to find a good reason to get the Goldwing out and take it for a spin. When he needed a little time to himself, he would retreat to his woodshop and let his talents run wild. Over the years he built many pieces of beautiful furniture for his churches and for his family, including the cradles that he made for each of his grandchildren.
Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Connie Jo (Dragoo) Heck. She and Ronald were married in 1959. Also surviving are his sons, Mark A. Heck (Terri) of Franklin, John S. Heck (JoEtta) of Windsor, Colo., Paul D. Heck of Sheridan, Andrew L. Heck of Midlothian, Va., and Shain A. Heck (Stacey) of Ocala, Fla.; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brother, Thomas Joe Heck (Margaret) of Lake Placid, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Betty Emry; and brother, Jim Heck.
Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 30, 2021, at Crown View Cemetery in Sheridan. Pastor Josh Cadwell will be officiating.
Ronald’s family has requested that no flowers be sent, and instead donate to either the Sheridan First Christian Church, Victory Christian Church in Franklin, Ind., or to the P.S.P. Brain Support Network, P.O. Box 7264, Menlo Park, CA, 94026.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kercheval Funeral Home in Sheridan.
Condolences: kerchevalfuneralhome.com