Howard D. Heimlich

Born on August 14, 1945, in Columbus, OH, Howard was the son of the late Dorothy M. Wolf-Heimlich and Howard W. Heimlich.

From August 4, 1963, to November 4, 1966, Howard answered the call to serve his country, beginning a career of honor and bravery in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a proud member of Battery A, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment (Artillery), a unit that saw intense action with the 3rd Marine Division. Initially stationed in Okinawa, Japan, he later deployed to South Vietnam, serving with distinction in the Da Nang area. As a skilled 0844 Field Artillery Fire Control Marine, he specialized in the precision and accuracy of artillery fire from the 105mm howitzer. He also served as a Sergeant at Arms, a vital role that placed him in charge of perimeter security and patrols. In addition to these duties, Howard courageously drove important personnel to their posts and undertook the dangerous mission of running critical mail routes through enemy territory in Da Nang, ensuring vital communications and morale-boosting letters reached his fellow Marines. The roads were perilous, and he tragically lost a good buddy who was critically wounded during one of these driving routes. His valor and commitment to his fellow Marines were evident throughout his service, and he achieved the rank of Corporal upon his honorable discharge. For his service, he was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.

After his service, Howard returned home and began a new chapter of his life, which included a career at Western Electric (later Lucent Technologies). In his retirement years, his favorite pastime was taking road trips with his wife, Laura, and anyone else who would accompany them, exploring the country they loved. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, great-grandfather, and mentor, and his greatest pride was his grandchildren. Howard will be remembered by all who knew him for his remarkable loyalty, generosity, kindness, and humor. Known as a lover of movies, furniture building, and music, he often enjoyed gifting his handmade creations to family.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Laura Doughty-Fairall-Heimlich; his daughter, Dawn Brady; and his step-children, Jackie (James) Lynn Fausnaugh, and Dallas (Sandra) Edward Fairall. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Pauline A. Kesterson and Sandra J. Steele, 28 nieces and nephews, and many more relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy M. Wolf-Heimlich; his father, Howard W. Heimlich; his sisters, Rosalie E. Tucker-Thomas and Gerry M. Campbell; his brother, Charles M. Heimlich; and his nephew, Army Sergeant Mathew Whetnall.

Funeral services will be held at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. A Visitation will follow from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Graveside Service will be conducted at 1:00 PM on Monday, October 6, 2025, at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Home Instead of Granville for their compassion and care, and to Paul and Gentiva Hospice for their friendship and support during this time.