A native Houstonian, David was born on September 25, 1940, attended Austin High School in Houston, graduating in 1958 before attending The University of Houston Architect College.
He began his career at Wood-Arts at the age of 13 where he worked as a cabinet-maker, machinist, draftsman, estimator and eventually sales manager. Under his leadership, the business more than doubled in growth. In 1975, David negotiated a deal to buy the company and incorporated it as Wood-Arts Company of Houston, Inc. Like many of his competitors, the oil bust of the 80s took its toll on the company; and he closed it in 1993. After Wood-Arts, David was an accountant and financial consultant for over 50 charities until he retired in 2015.
David had a passion for adventure. He once took a weeklong canoe trip through the Florida Everglades, encountering snakes, alligators and even sharks. He went on two Alaskan hunting trips with his brother. He hoped every year that he’d be successful in the annual Wyoming mule deer tag draw, introducing several family members to the adventure and joys of the Rocky Mountains of Wyoming.
David will be most remembered for his love for Jesus and the life-changing impact that passion made on others. All who knew him knew about God’s Grace and the saving power of Jesus Christ. He taught Sunday School for many years, even coming up with his own Bible study centered around the book of Genesis. He started a ministry called Acts of Kindness where church volunteers would serve the community they were a part of whether it was mowing lawns, fixing fences, or painting houses.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Marquata Ann Heinlein; brothers, Norman Heinlein and Kenneth Bonzo; sister, Darlene Gibbs; children, Darryl Heinlein, Kim Kolenda, Mary Beth Strong, John McCammon, Charla McCruter, Sarah Boeding and Rebekah Rorie. He was also blessed with 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
