John Raymond Heltzel

John was born in Lynch, Nebraska on November 30, 1951 to beloved parents, Dorothy and Eugene Heltzel. As a child, John constructed model airplanes and ships. He played imaginary war games that later developed into a love of American history, politics and pride for his country. After high school, this motivated him to enlist into the United States Air Force. There he spent the best years of his life serving his country as an Aircraft Armament Systems Technician. John would tell you he received a few metals for nothing important but he had a twent-year career working with complex aircraft weaponry, namely F4’s, F5’s, A10’s and B-52 bombers. He was a proud patriot and enjoyed serving his country. While stationed in Thailand, he met the love of his life, Phisami “Pei” Wicharnranarong, they married and together they raised their three children. John retired as a decorated Sergeant of the 35th AGS Tactical Air Command in 1991. After his service and traveling the world, he finally retired in Arizona with his family.

John was an avid reader; his most enjoyable genres were religion, history and science fiction. His other hobbies included strategic board games, word searches, crossword puzzles, and occasionally mixing it up with online gamers. He loved movies, sitcoms and game shows like The Patriot, Cheers and Jeopardy. Aside from his personal hobbies, he was a hard-working man, who loved his family. John’s children will remember him as a constant supportive figure in their lives.

The passing of his wife and father preceded his own. He is survived by his daughters Ruschanee Vickers and Mary Quaranta; son, John, and daughter in law, Juliana Heltzel; 6 grandchildren, Andre, Christina, Todd Jr., Jonnie, Alaya, Gianna and 2 great grandchildren, Brendan and Leanna. He is also survived by his mother Dorothy Heltzel, his siblings and their spouses, Debbie and Jim Maher, Jeff and Barbie Heltzel, Laurie Heltzel, Mark and Sharon Heltzel, Michael and Christan Heltzel and all of their children. An extension to his family would include Juliana’s sisters, Anna and Jessica, their father Tony Gonzalez, and dear friends to the family, Jose Tanori and Bernie Tarin.

By the Lord’s side, may John rest in peace. He will be remembered and missed.

Friends and family are invited to attend John’s viewing which will be held on Thursday, April 30th from 2-6 PM at West Resthaven Funeral Home, 6450 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale AZ, 85301. In light of current restrictions, we will be practicing healthy physical social distancing and attendees will be ushered in ten at a time.

Funeral services will be held the following day, Friday, May 1st, at St. Helen Catholic Church, beginning with the rosary at 9:15 AM. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10 AM. Burial will be held afterwards at Resthaven Park Cemetery in Glendale.

Again, in light of current health restrictions of large gatherings, participation will be limited to ten people only. A live stream will be available on Instagram and Facebook. Please be on the lookout for an invitation via text or social media.