Mark Gorka

January 16, 2019

I joined EDS in 1986 and only meet Jeff on two occasions. Both times I was struck by his self deprecating "just fell off the turnip truck so explain it to me slowly" demeanor. It complimented a brilliant ability to surface real issues and get various parties to work together. Jeff embodied EDS. He was tough, but kind. Even though EDS is long gone, its spirit is still with many of us today. Sincere condolences to friends and family. RIP Jeff.

Don Mcgarry

January 15, 2019

Mrs. Carol Heller

As a long time GM'r who transitioned to EDS at the time of the GM/EDS acquisition; I was very fortunate to be associated with your husband Jeff. He treated me with respect and was a very honorable and ethical Senior Vice president of Technical Services, Jeff made me responsible for planning the consolidation. Jeff subsequently assigned me to Europe and later to Plano Texas.

I recall Jeff and you attending the grand opening of the Paris Information Processing Center (IPC), when my late wife Helen and I hosted EDS executives and French Luminaries to the event.

Jeff and I had an excellent business relationship, but more importantly, at a personal level, we discussed our families.
Jeff was kind to Helen and I when he facilitated our retirement to our home in Canada.

My thoughts and prayers are with you at Jeff's celebration of life. I have attached a picture of us when you were in Paris.

Sincerely,
Don McGarry

Doug Light

January 15, 2019

While we all are feeling much grief at the passing of Jeff Heller, I’d like to think at the same time, many of us have been comforted by remembering our own special stories that illustrated what an incredible leader and person he was at a time when such extraordinary leadership was valued and emulated. Even when we appeared to lose our way, Jeff’s sense of duty brought him back to EDS to remind us of our roots. Leading like the Marine officer he was, in EDS he inspired us by exemplifying his commitment to the team, to completing the mission at hand and to fulfilling a greater purpose beyond himself and the present. One of my favorite quotes is from Henry Ford, who said “My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.” Reading through all these remembrances, it’s clear that Jeff Heller brought out the best in countless souls around him during his life. The comforting part is in knowing that through his actions, his memory and his legacy, he will continue to do exactly that. My deepest condolences to the Heller family.

Steve Schuckenbrock

January 15, 2019

Truly great leaders are often the most humble. Jeff’s humble presence saved EDS when he returned in 2003. I loved Jeff’s stories and learned that they were freely offered as teaching moments as well. Jeff believed in people and they believed in him. I/we were blessed to call him a friend.

Becky and I will keep Carol and the entire Heller family in our thoughts and prayers.

Gerald Massey

January 15, 2019

Jeff was the one of the most honest, genuine and honorable people with whom I had the privilege to work. As others here have noted, Jeff was a pillar in the bedrock of EDS in both good times and not so good. He taught me more than he ever knew in the years that we worked together. He was equally generous with his time in numerous encounters since our time together at EDS. My condolences to Carol and the family. RIP Jeff.

Carl Westcott

January 15, 2019

Jeff was a friend a mentor and the best board member. At board meetings he had little to say. When he spoke we all listened because it It was always important, ,well thought out and succinct.
Like so many others, I respected — his caring for others.
He will be missed by so many.

Bob Kschinka

January 15, 2019

We've lost a great leader, executive, father, husband and friend. In short, Jeff was a great man! Humble, caring, empathetic and kind. I knew him at EDS, and I respect few people as much as I respected Jeff. He will be missed by all those who knew him. Sympathies to his family and friends. The world is a better place because of you, Jeff.

Dan Butler

January 15, 2019

Jeff is, and always was, an outstanding example of leadership and solid good sense. With his many accomplishments, he was always approachable and candid. The best of examples for us all. I connected with Jeff in may ways, as an EDS leader, and as a person committed to physical fitness. He represents one of the most outstanding persons I've known. He is sadly missed.

Barry Ingram

January 15, 2019

It is hard to say goodbye to Jeff after so many years of working together and enjoying his company. Jeff exemplified the role of an EDS leader every single day. He set the standard. THE EDS EAGLE.

Working with Jeff has always been a pleasure, no matter how challenging the project or the long hours required. We first met in 1969 during the earliest days of the Mod Squad and we were installing national Medicare in multiple states. At one point, when we saw the cycles for the very large numbers of claims could not be completed in time, Jeff took on the task of giving the duplicate checking program a multitasking capability. This new feature allowed us to complete those largest processing cycles in time.

Over the years, our paths crossed many times. As many have said before, Jeff was always there when we needed him, ready to jump in and help. From Exchange Park, to Forest Lane, to Camp Hill, to California, to Australia to anywhere needed.

As a total surprise to me, Jeff took time out from his busy schedule to come to Washington for my retirement dinner in late 2007. Walking in and seeing Jeff made the event even more special. He was gracious, funny and sincere. He was Jeff.

Our heartfelt condolences to Carol and all the family.

Rest In Peace, Jeff. You deserve it.

Joseph Rowe

January 14, 2019

I had only been with EDS for four months when I was called into Jeff's office. I was certain I was about to be fired. The other members of my team had preceded me and left grim-faced, without a word. We had handled a situation badly. As I entered, the tall man behind the desk exuded seriousness and authority. My fear subsided the moment his mouth opened and he spoke softly in that East Texas drawl of his. We exchanged pleasantries until he got down to business, spending about thirty seconds explaining what we had done wrong and moved on. He told me he knew I had just gone along with the others, but reminded me I was responsible for my own decisions. Then, he asked what I wanted to do in my career before shaking my foot with his hand as he ushered me out. My fear had turned to respect. I knew the man behind that desk could fire me on a whim, but he wouldn't. He had honesty, humility, and fairness written all over him.

Six months later, I was again called to Jeff's office. This time, he offered me a promotion, a raise, and a challenging new assignment. When I expressed my doubts about my qualifications, he insisted that he knew I would do well and I promised not to let him down.

I saw little of Jeff in the subsequent twenty-six years other than to spot him occasionally doing laps in the pool at Forest Lane. He was managing great endeavors and I was working in the trenches of those projects.

I took early retirement in 1999 because my mother had Alzheimer's and needed my help. I would never be allowed to work at EDS again without the president's permission. My mother died in 2003 and I struggled financially and was unable to find a job afterward. In 2004, Jeff signed an order permitting me to return to EDS, found me a position, and made me a personal loan. I was able to work there two more years before a layoff forced me to retire again.

My career at EDS was the most rewarding period of my life and I owe much of it to that gangly good man who should have fired me.

Steve Birmingham

January 14, 2019

My condolences to Carol and the rest of the Heller family. Jeff embodied the best in example, the best in leadership, and above all, the best in humanity. He was THE one to emulate and inspired people to follow him. He lived the example of the old saying “You cannot manage a man into battle...you must lead him.” Semper Fi, Marine, from an old Sailor and fellow EDSer. Rest In Peace.

Judy Barnes

January 14, 2019

Mr. Heller will always remain in my heart and mind as one of the greatest leaders I respected in my years at EDS. He embodied the leadership characteristics of integrity, humility and service. Often emulated, but was never duplicated!

I was blessed to get to work with him and support events from Board of Directors to Inner Circle…and everything else in between. And, I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to do one thing that meant so much—to sit with him at a table in the cafeteria in Plano and just talk. His wise counsel on “doing life” was not only spoken, but evident in the way he lived his own life daily.

Carol and Heller Family, thank you for sharing Jeff with all of us—and at many times I know, sacrificing time away from family. He is loved, revered and will be greatly missed.

Bob & Stephanie Healy

January 14, 2019

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Carol and the family. Stephanie and I combined worked nearly 45 years at EDS and can proudly say that our time there was highly and positively influenced by Jeff’s calming demeanor, excellent relationship skills, extraordinary leadership and never-swaying devotion to doing the right thing.

Jeff was the steady hand on the wheel – through good and bad times, just knowing Jeff was right there, making the tough decisions, deploying the right people, challenging us to grow the business or to more rapidly resolve problems for our customers, made it seem easier and more rewarding.

Over the course of more than two decades, through numerous internal and customer meetings and events, our experience was that Jeff always asked how you were, he had an uncanny way of knowing what you were working on, and he consistently asked what you thought about things, what your opinion was – his ability to make one feel valued, able & qualified to contribute, and an important part of the EDS family was second to none.

Ross Perot coined a saying many years ago, no doubt thinking about Jeff - “Eagles don’t flock, you have to find them one at a time”. I think we can suspend that saying for a brief spell - those of us lucky enough to be able to attend the celebration of life services for Jeff later this week will get to witness an entire flock of Eagles, all there to pay our due respects to a great man and his family. Even after passing, the “last gentleman executive” brings us all together once more!

Jeff, may you rest peacefully in God’s hands.

Bob & Stephanie Healy

Richard Shlakman

January 14, 2019

I had the privilege of working with virtually all of the senior leaders of EDS from 1969 through 1992, both as outside counsel and later after joining the corporation as General Counsel. These were men and women who shared many traits; passion, business acumen, and other vital skills necessary for leading a business from inception to greatness. What made Jeff unique, and so special to so many people, was that he added to the passion, business acumen, and other leadership skill sets, the additional innate qualities that set him apart from all of the other senior leaders: decency, humility, courage, and compassion. If you worked with or for him, you were one of the lucky ones. Dick Shlakman

Javier Solis

January 13, 2019

Jeff was always an inspiration. As a young leader in those days, it was a valuable experience to see his ethical approach to everything he did. I didn’t have the fortune of working for him directly, but he surely helped mold my leadership style. A great leader. A great patriot. My condolences to his wife and family.

Javier Solis

Terry Doster

January 13, 2019

I joined EDS in 1987, and my manager at the time supported Jeff. I was so impressed with how a senior executive was so easy to talk to and made everyone feel at ease. He loved hearing about what was going on in our department and our lives – he truly believed that the people made the company great. I will never forget seeing the never-ending line of people that just wanted to shake Jeff’s hand and thank him for being such a kind, wonderful, humble and ethical leader when he retired from EDS the first time. There will never be another person like Jeff Heller – and heaven is even brighter with his arrival! God bless Carol and the entire family!

Hank Johnston

January 13, 2019

What else could be said about Jeff? Even with his passing, he brings the spirit of the original EDS company back. Carol, our prayers are with you, Debbie, and the entire Heller family.

Sanjay Kumar

January 13, 2019

I admired Jeff as a leader at EDS and is partly, if not the the reason, I stayed there almost 20 years. God Bless.

Vern Olson

January 13, 2019

Jeff and I were trainees together in the early days of the SED program. We trained together and we experienced together. Several of that group went on to great success and the leadership roles that went with that success. Ten or twelve years later, I worked directly for Jeff, and had several projects for him, usually involving some of the same people from the SED ranks. What I saw in Jeff was the same guy. He was Jeff, whether he was dealing with trainees, corporate muckety-mucks, or customers. In evaluating people, we tend to focus on what’s best about them, and what’s worst. My list of things about Jeff included no worst. In my tasks for him, I received praise for the good things I did and was appropriately chastised for what I did poorly. No matter the tone of the meeting. I felt better. That was Jeff.

Carol, our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with you and your family. Thanks for sharing Jeff.

Barbie and Vern Olson

Layla Mocio

January 13, 2019

I have the most wonderful memories of working with Jeff. He was my boss for more than 20 years and who formed me at the beginning of my career in 1985. Jeff, by far was the best leader I ever had. I am so proud of everything he taught me. Our prayers are with you Carol and your entire family.
Scott and Layla Mocio

Bill Gaylord

January 13, 2019

First met Jeff when he was modifying the EDS Medicare System for our customers at PBS and then UMS. He worked until he was exhausted, then went home and recovered and came back to work some more. The programs always worked, eventually, or he didn’t go home. He also had a great sense of humor starting with the story of his last flight as a Marine Corps pilot. Flying an F-4 fighter, his engine flamed out and headed for the ground. Jeff bailed out and parachuted to a safe landing although suffering a significant back injury. The plane crashed of course and Jeff’s commanding officer told him he had ruined a perfectly good $10,000,000 plane. Jeff always worried he would get the bill to pay for its replacement. In the early 1970’s, while I was managing the EDS Washington D.C. Branch Office, Jeff became the Eastern Regional manager and stopped by to give me my 6 month performance review. He laughed and said he had no idea what we did in the Washington office dealing with Congress and the Federal health care agencies but Ross, Mitch, Mort and Les seemed to be happy with what we were doing, so he was giving me a good report and wishing us good luck...and headed for the airport to fly back to Dallas. Last story starts in mid 1996, after I had spent several exciting years in EDS’ fairly new Managing Consulting Group. With a strong desire to return to the real world, I went to Jeff and asked for his help getting an assignment somewhere in Europe where I had spent 10 rewarding years as an SBU President back in the 1980-90’s while we were part of GM. A week later Jeff said Stuart Reeves, the officer in charge of Europe, had agreed to send me to Italy to help bring a newly acquired Italian IT company into the EDS family. How do you say thanks to good friends who send you to Italy for the next three years? By doing your best to get the job done like they would do themselves. And, we did fortunately. Love to Carol and Debbie.

Ron Benigo

January 13, 2019

Who among us would not give anything and everything to be remembered as we remember Jeff in these eulogies.
To Carol, Debbie and the rest of the Heller family, Julie and I send our deepest sympathies. He was a gentle giant and the nicest man we have ever known.

Kevin McFarling

January 13, 2019

In a time when many still struggle to define “leadership” or need to chase the newest fad, Jeff was the epitome of what it means to be a leader. He was genuine and authentic. He consistently aligned words with actions. He measured success not through personal benefit or intrinsic possessions, but through creating an environment where the team achieved objectives.

Titles, wealth, material possessions are fleeting. The true measure of a person is how they made those around them better, and the impact they had on others. There is no doubt in my mind that Jeff’s impact was larger than he realized. He is missed deeply. Godspeed- Semper Fi.

Dianne Ford

January 13, 2019

I first saw Jeff in action when I was Executive Assistant to Hartmut Burger. He reported to Jeff much of the time I worked with him. Later, when I became project manager for the Virtual Reality Center and then Data Engineering manager, I would expose my teams to lunch up in the "God pod". They were very talented technical teams, immersed in the great work EDS was doing and never got to see what it was like upstairs. I would always ask Jeff if he could do what I called an "Executive Fly By" and just take a few minutes to stop by while we were having lunch.

Even though I know he had very little time to spare, he would come and spend time with my teams, asking them what they did and answering questions. It meant a lot to us and was an example of the value and leadership he demonstrated every day for the people contributing to our goals.

He touched a lot of people's careers, including mine, and I am grateful for his influence.

Manish Sheth

January 13, 2019

I had the privilege of meeting Jeff Heller when I was with EDS. What strikes me most about Jeff Heller was my brief meeting with him during an EDS Sales Conference in Dallas. Even though he was COO and I was a Management Consultant, Jeff was so easy to approach. We happened to strike up a conversation one-on-one and he graciously engaged with me. During our conversation, I happened to mention my Uncle's name at GM who led GM's International Truck Division and Jeff went, "I know Jay...he and I worked together when EDS was part of GM. How's Jay doing? Say Hi to him when you meet him next." That 20-minute conversation left me with an indelible impression of what kind of a person Jeff was and what a COO should be like! And just last week, when I met my Uncle, we talked briefly about my days with EDS and my chance meeting with Jeff Heller. I shall forever cherish my conversation with Jeff and the note from him and Mike Jordan on my anniversary with EDS.

My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Heller and the entire Heller family on his loss. Jeff was a giant among giants. My his soul rest in peace.

Jim Headrick

January 12, 2019

Jeff was a true EDS EAGLE. It was truly a time that I will never forget when I worked with Jeff starting in the Dallas Mod Squad in 1969 and many years after. He was a true friend, coworker and leader. As many have already stated he was very instrumental in molding the lives and careers of many individuals for the better.
May God be with Carol and the family during this time.

Alisa SIkorski

January 12, 2019

To the Heller Family -

We are so deeply saddened to learn of Jeff's passing.

Words cannot begin to express how lucky I felt to have had the opportunity to work with Jeff as the executive sponsor of the EDS Fellows Program - there was no better champion for employees! He was such an incredible leader, role model and man of integrity - one whom I have admired for years.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Carol, Debbie and your family.

Alisa and Jack Sikorski

Todd Carlson

January 12, 2019

As so many others have said and will always say, Jeff was powerful, ethical, committed and accomplished at everything he did. But, most impressive was his empathy, compassion, and friendship with his business and social freinds. And there were thousands. I am greatful to have been one of them.
We will never forget Jeff. He was a superstar.

With deep condolences to Carol and the whole family.
Todd

Talie and Sam Freedman

January 12, 2019

Carol: Talie and I share your loss. Jeff and I came to work for EDS about the same time in 1968. For the next 10 years we shared the ups and downs of "One Time Only, Unique Opportunities" all over the country. Through his quiet courage and unflappable demeanor, Jeff made my life much easier. He always saw the humor in any situation, and provided an ethical and calm response to any crisis. He was the kind of friend that you always knew would support you in any predicament, giving steady and well thought out guidance to help you through in the toughest of times. Although we saw each other very seldom in recent years it was always a pleasure when we did get together to know that our friendship was still solid and rewarding. His loyalty, ethics, calm in the face of adversity, and genuine caring for his friends are all to frequently absent from today's society. We will all miss him!

Ruth Williams

January 12, 2019

A courteous and gracious man, with an outstanding business understanding. I was in only a few meetings with him, however they are among the strongest memories of EDS that I have. Only last week I cited Jeff as an example of someone with a perception and breadth of knowledge to be aspired to. His legacy is worldwide. Goodbye Jeff.

Jim Lyness

January 12, 2019

I had the honor and privilege to work in EDS’s Account Leadership Program (ALP) who’s primary focus was to provide Account Leaders and their immediate managers with an MBA like education to better serve their customers, employees, and EDS. Another key reason the ALP program was created was to bring back the prestige and importance of the EDS Account Leader.
During the one year long program, i witnessed many times Jeff sit in a circle with EDS’s finest and “dialogue” many leadership topics with some pretty “crusty” Account Leaders.
I witnessed first hand a true leader. He listened deeply. While he commanded the room and circle that he sat in with his fellow EDSers he personified kindness, humility, and empathy. It was amazing to watch the greatness of EDS led by a man who truly cared about his fellow EDSers and the company that he helped build that gave a blue collar kid from the foothills of Mt. Rainier the opportunity to be part of an extraordinary company with people who cared about you.
As you know Jeff loved to tell stories and laugh out loud. In the ALP circles that he sat in he would always see one of his fellow “buddies” that he grew up with at EDS. I loved those stories because it brought an energy to the group where all would laugh out loud with a roar and for Jeff to tell those stories in his Texas drawl....”Littell remember when Lottie woke ya up at 2 am in the morning doing Marine Corps push-ups?” “Lottie can ya still do 30 pull ups?” Bob Sharp do you still eat glass?” ....about Mal Gudis walking down the row of cubes at Forrest Lane shouting , “Why are you not out selling!” and a young EDSer says to Mal, “Mr. Gudis, I’m not in sales’ and Mal shouts, “that’s no excuse get out there and sell something!” ....the young woman who starts as a secretary and becomes an SBU president...the recruiter who broke his neck diving in Greece and EDS got the USAF to medivac him to a hospital....thank you Jeff for all that you did....Oooh Raaah!

G. A. Walters

January 12, 2019

What an amazing person and what an incredible life he lived. He will be missed by those of us who grew up with the Heller family as part of our lives. Rest in Peace, Jeff.

Jeffery Darrel Thomas

January 12, 2019

It’s almost unbelievable and unbearable to hear that Jeff has passed. As all of us from early EDS days to after the company was bought by HP, and with his 2nd retirement, he was always the best leader and friend the company has ever known. We all have our personal stories of how Jeff’s grace and humility and class touched our lives. I met Jeff early in my career as an SED Phase I at a townhall meeting where he and other leaders were giving the employees updates and taking questions and a question came up about duplication of effort and I asked a question that Clay Johnston and I got into a heated discussion. Well, later that day I received a call from Jeff telling me that it was ok to challenge the leaders when you have a good point and that he would be keeping an eye on me! For me as a young engineer in training it was a shock and a privilege that Jeff was so kind to speak to and encourage someone who he just interacted with. But that was Jeff, never too busy or pretentious or proud to speak to or laugh with ANY employee. We became great friends after that and whether it was working on the Information Age at the Smithsonian, the Infomart, the Barcelona Olympics, World Cup 1994, and countless other accounts and projects, I can just hear he and Jim Thoreson calling me with another “opportunity “.

Words cannot express my sorry over his passing. He was a great leader but an even greater mentor and friend. My sincerest condolences to the Heller family. He is and will be greatly missed and loved forevermore. Godspeed, Jeff, you have earned your place in EDS lore and in Heaven.

Kevin Moran

January 11, 2019

After reading all these comments from many fellow EDS alumni I realized Mr. Heller's passing brought us back together one last time to remember that commitment, honesty and caring about people are the key parts of leadership that last. My condolences to the family.

Kathy Anderson

January 11, 2019

Thankyou Jeff for your leadership at EDS. I always used you as a role model for leading my teams making sure I listened, gave credit to those making the contributions and showing respect to the individuals that made us successful in achieving our clients requirements. I was lucky to have worked at EDS during your tenure.

Julie Richmond

January 11, 2019

Sending prayers of support and comfort to the family. Jeff was so kind and humble, and a great teacher by example to the "EDS family."

Bill Melton

January 11, 2019

Sincere condolences on Jeff's passing.

He was a great leader and great Longhorn!

May God Bless Jeff and the family.

Hook Em!

Herschell Atkinson

January 11, 2019

Carol, so sorry to hear about Jeff.
I competed against Jeff in swimming for many summers and was on the UT swim team with Jeff 57/62. Sorry I never got the opportunity to meet you. I was out of contact with Jeff for many years as we went our different ways after graduation and fortunately were able to renew our friendship several years ago and had lunch a few times. I had heard that Jeff was ill and I am so sorry I did not reach out to him when I heard.
Will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. He was a good man, wonderful friend and great swimmer.
Herschell Atkinson

Lisa Stokes

January 11, 2019

An inspirational leader who was a gentleman, strong and did what was right in the face of challenge. Supporter of many, loved by multitudes. Thinking of his family and friends at this time.

Bret Allinson

January 11, 2019

Carol, I am sad to hear of Jeff’s passing and know my prayers are with you and all the Heller family. Jeff’s positive influences to his family, country, community, University of Texas and EDS people are countless.

I first met Jeff after arriving to work at EDS Forest Lane. Jeff was headed for his lunch work out to swim laps. Departing the EDS club house, he stopped, introduced himself and gave me a hand shake asking where I worked. I was taken back with his interest in a courier driver and his positive encouragement for me.

Overtime, you learned this was Jeff’s leadership style regardless of your title you were always treated with dignity, respect and given his famous handshake. His ability to bring levity to challenging situations with his calmness and many stories, seemed to make them smaller. Through funerals, illnesses, births and tenure celebrations you witnessed his hand shake, his concern for people, kind words and leadership.

I recall a leadership session early in my career where the founder was sharing his thoughts around his leadership team. He conveyed how he thought about their “positions”. Upon coming to Jeff, he shared the following; “when I need the pulse of the employees, I go to Jeff. I can count on him always being connected to all men and women.” Witnessing this gift through countless examples in one’s career was such an influence for so many professionally and personally.

Needless to say, the numbers he helped and inspired through his leadership of humility, courage, commitment to people, honesty and integrity were inspirational to so many. I will never forget the impact on my life.
Carol, thank you and the Heller family for sharing him with so many. May God be with each of you and know his handshake and stories live on.

Blessings,

Bret Allinson

Audrey Mross

January 11, 2019

Men like Jeff Heller are the reason that EDS alumni, like me, remain proud of and feel strongly connected to that "band of brothers and sisters" decades after leaving the company. Character matters, and he had tons of it. Thanks and God Speed, Jeff, and virtual hugs to his beloved family.

Margo Williams

January 11, 2019

Mr. Heller was the most humble, kindhearted person I’ve ever met. Whenever he was in the office, we’d always have great morning conversations over coffee. He was so very knowledgeable and I enjoyed listening to funny stories about his brothers and how he got his start. He always spoke so highly and lovingly about his wife and adored his grandsons. I'm truly going to miss him. I have comfort in knowing such beautiful souls transcends into a beautiful place.

Murray Holland

January 11, 2019

How do you start to write about Jeff? I met him in the 1980s and over the next 30+ years we worked on the same side of the table, we worked on opposite sides of the table, we hunted and fished together for years. We had debates, laughed, drank, smoked cigars, played golf and talked about everything in the world for hours and hours. For the last 5 years or so we had offices next to each other and we talked almost daily. He was great.

I have no idea how he did it, but during all the wild years at EDS, he always remained calm and compassionate. The rest of us would be ranting and raving about some issue or another but Jeff just took it all in and calmly commented on the goings on. He, of course, was always right.

I always thought his greatest quality was his internal happiness and his ability to infect everyone around with that happiness. I believe this was the source of his calm demeanor. The most fun night we had together was in the middle of Patagonia...we were eating a fabulous meal, drinking great wine, smoking cigars and telling jokes with a bunch of guys until the wee hours of the morning. That was so much fun. That is how I will always remember him-happy and laughing. I will miss him greatly.

Karen & Mal Gudis

January 11, 2019

Jeff Heller represented the best of what the “original” EDS was all about.
Hard working, soft spoken, loyal and a role model all of us should emulate.
Jeff was in a category all by himself and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
I over 45 years I have never heard anyone mention a pejorative word regarding Jeff.
To Carol and the entire Heller family, Karen and I send our love and prayers.

Todd Taylor

January 11, 2019

A wonderful human being. When a close friend of mine needed quick access to M.D. Anderson, I called Jeff and he went into action immediately. It was a pleasure to know him and work for a company that reflected his values.

Todd

Jim Goode

January 11, 2019

I, like most who have shared their thoughts here, feel honored to have known and worked both with and for Jeff during my 30 years with EDS. My strongest memory of working for EDS was that we were a team and could count on other members to really have our back whenever there were struggles. Jeff seemed to exemplify this strength more strongly than others. He will be missed.

My wife, Carol, and I offer condolences to all of Jeff's family.

Jim Goode

Bob McCleskey

January 11, 2019

Jeff was without a doubt the best manager to whom I reported in a 20+ year career with EDS. He was smart and knew when to let his direct reports do their job without his interference. Although I did not know he on a personal level, he epitomized being a leader of men. He was a good Gin player as well.

Ralph Burns

January 11, 2019

My deepest condolences to Carol and the Heller family on their loss. May God bless and comfort you all in this difficult time.
I knew Jeff as a leader of uncompromising integrity and compassion. His leadership during my two tours at EDS provided clarity and stability and the model of committed leadership. When asked, his support was always there. He will be missed.

David Luellen

January 11, 2019

Jeff was a kind and thoughtful person. He was in a business that was competitive and sometimes rough, but he always had such a great moral compass. Because of this, he was a great leader. More importantly, it made him a great man. My prayers go out to Carol and his family.

Patty Locke

January 11, 2019

Jeff Heller was a king among men who has touched many lives with his "walk the talk" commitment. He legacy will live on within many of us. Keeping the entire Heller family in my thoughts and prayers as you celebrate his life.

Joe McMahan

January 11, 2019

Jeff is a truly great friend who is now in Heaven with many of our other friends from Gary, Hogg and Tyler High School.

Susan Humphrey

January 11, 2019

I was lucky enough to get to work in Jeff’s office. There are many memories to choose from but the one that epitomizes Jeff best is how often he was a little late to meetings because he was taking time to talk our mail guy. Jeff loved people and in turn, we loved him back.

Ron Rittenmeyer

January 11, 2019

Jeff was the most thoughtful and sincere individual I have met in my career. He loved what he did and he did it so well. We spent many hours together discussing direction of the company and his insights framed much of what we accomplished. He always made time to listen and comment and he stood for the values he shared with everyone. A true loss to many who were fortunate to have known him.
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Carol & family.
Ron & Hedy Rittenmeyer

Brad Jackson

January 11, 2019

I am beyond saddened at the news of Jeff's passing. I admired Jeff more than anyone else in the company. He was the epitome of an EDS Leader. Whether you knew him personally or only as a stalwart EDS fixture --- Jeff cannot be separated from EDS anymore than Ross Perot --- he was genuine and easy to follow, imitate and admire. It says a lot that rank & file EDSers felt a bond to Jeff regardless of the degree to which they interacted with him. He's not the first of the old guard to leave us, but he was arguably the best and will be greatly missed.

Dan Ward

January 11, 2019

One of the most decent gentlemen I have ever known - a truly class act. Tough as nails, but always seeking to be fair. And an authentic American patriot!

Bill Thomas

January 11, 2019

“To command is to serve, nothing more, nothing less..”
Jeff Heller served his clients, his colleagues, his company, his community, his country and his Corps - he would always lead with great humility and by shining example.
Jeff also had beautiful Texan humour - I recall his return during the dark days when he chose to explain it by having “found lots of unused blue suits in the wardrobe.....”

Deep condolences to Carol and all the Heller family.
Bill & Julie Thomas

Eduardo Araujo

January 11, 2019

Jeff Heller always epitomized the essence of a great human being and a true leader. Humble, capable, faithful, honest and always displaying the highest standards of integrity. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to spend some time with him, listening to his firm and gentle counseling. He was a person of reference and a great mentor. Even being a true legend in the business world, he was able to make everyone around him feel valuable and worthy. He will be dearly missed but his legacy remains alive in thousands of lives he influenced and blessed. Our deepest gratitude to the Heller family for sharing Jeff with us. On behalf of our family, our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers. May God bless and comfort us all in this difficult time.

Sherry Griles

January 10, 2019

Our sincere condolences to the Heller family. The world has lost a great leader. Mr. Heller left many examples for us to live by. He was a person of integrity, fortitude and inspiration. He led by example. My husband and I had the pleasure of attending the ‘National Day of Prayer’ breakfast, in Plano one year. We shared a table with Mr. Heller, his wife and others. Very personable. Nothing pretentious about the man. But everyone knew that from working at EDS, in the IPC's, IMC, and SMC. Yes Mr. Heller, you made an impact on all who crossed your path. You will be missed. May you rest in Peace.

Kip and Sherry Griles (Ex-GM'ers that transitioned to EDS in 1985 until 2014)

Suzanne Heller

January 10, 2019

There will never be another Jeff Heller... one of a kind. Love and prayers to Carol and the family from “no relation Heller”
Much love ❤️

Dick Callahan

January 10, 2019

I was fortunate to be at an EDS Manager/Sales Conference meeting in 2003 with 200+ EDS managers and sales people. Morale at our company was very low at the time. He was introduced and walked onto the stage. Within seconds, the entire crowd was on their feet with a thunderous standing ovation that lasted for several minutes for Jeff and everything he represented. Our EDS employee reaction says it all. Thank You Jeff Heller.

Louis Matrone

January 10, 2019

Carol and family please accept my deepest sympathy.

Like many others, Jeff touched my life in a very special way. He was a mentor, role model and friend. Jeff had a very gentle way of handling every situation and was loyal to us all! He was one of the few Executives who went out of his way to win over my spouse, who adored him dearly.

We will miss Jeff, but will hold a very special place in our hearts and the happy times we shared!

Rest In Peace Jeff!

John King

January 10, 2019

Jeff Heller exemplified the True North of leadership and character in EDS. We all learned so many lessons watching him lead by example. All those who share his memory pass our love and respect on to Carol and family.

Seanna Horan

January 10, 2019

Peace to the Heller Family and all who love and respect Mr. Jeff Heller. First, a kind man, who looked everyone in the eye and told the truth. Second, a respectful leader, who valued the contributions of each person and expected the best we could be together. Third, and most importantly, a man of faith who loved his family and demonstrated steady loyalty to his friends. Actions matter. Words matter. Jeff were always in alignment. And add to that his tremendous stories and sense of humor! I am thankful for the opportunity to know and work with Jeff. God bless him for his life of service. Semper Fidelis.

Mark Noble

January 10, 2019

I never worked directly for Jeff, but I, like everyone at EDS, knew Jeff Heller. I met Jeff twice and one of those was when I, very reluctantly, interrupted his dinner with his wife to thank him for all he had done for EDS. He turned the tables and thanked me. Jeff, thank you for your ethics, thank you for your values, thank you for leading by example. Fly On the Wings of Eagles and RIP.

Ron Vargo

January 10, 2019

There is not much to add to the wonderful and sincere tributes already made by the people that Jeff touched. I knew Jeff for a shorter time than others, having joined EDS in 2004. But we became close quickly and I welcomed any conversation we had, learning much from Jeff about EDS and its values... none better represented by anyone more than Jeff.
Post-EDS, we stayed in touch and often had fun conversations about college football, usually about Texas and Ohio State.
Carol and family, we are thinking about you and hope you understand the positive impact that the Hellers had on so many people.
Ron and Kathy Vargo

Suzanne Bailey

January 10, 2019

Although I never worked for Mr. Heller I would often pass by him in the office. He never failed to make eye contact and speak in passing. A kind man and a gentle soul, his eyes said it all. Prayers to his family and thank you for sharing him with us.

Bas Winckels

January 10, 2019

I have only once met Jeff in person, while I was employed at EDS. Knowing his reputation, I was humbled to meet him then and there, but I was even more humbled by the fact that he was such a friendly man. He was genuinely interested in us and wanted to know what we were doing at the company and had some great words of advice, encouragement. There are many people in this world that you meet and you forget about instantly - Jeff was the exact opposite: I had one quick chat with him, but I will never forget it. I guess it speaks volumes about him. And the fact that I'm coming to this page to share this memory of him, says that he left a lasting memory on me. I would want to be as he was, he has set an example to me, and boy did he put that bar high!

Pete Mefford

January 10, 2019

Carol and family, deepest sympathy from Lyn and me.
Like so many, I met Jeff in 1969 shortly after joining EDS and found him to be genuine, smart, and kind.
I have read each memory and it's obvious that Jeff was the same person to everyone, no matter their station in life. I had the honor to work for him over many years and he never disappointed me. We often would start our day with a cup of coffee and a chat. That's when he revealed the personal side and it was what was inside Jeff Heller that made him so remarkable.
Jeff taught me many things about technology, business and relationships, but his best lessons came from just watching how he interacted with others, how he talked to a person like there was no one else around, how he got pure joy from the accomplishments of others, and how everyone always felt better after being with him. Jeff cannot be replaced...at EDS or in my life. I loved that man.

Tim McCoy

January 10, 2019

Mr. Heller, one of the original incorporators of EDS Employees Federal Credit, agreed to be interviewed by a fellow junior staff and me in 1997. We were relative managerial credit union fledglings tasked with completing a history assignment as part of our first year of executive banking (credit union) school. Mr. Heller couldn't have been more generous with his time, spending an hour with us when only 15-20 minutes was originally allotted. The interview only stopped because we felt we had over-stayed our welcome, not because Mr. Heller indicated that he had more important things to do. What a positive impression that left with us then and to this day. He treated us as if we were long-time acquaintances and just as important as anything else on his schedule that day. Thank you, Mr. Heller.

Ricky Coulter

January 10, 2019

I remember one time that Jeff spoke on the topic of Integrity to a room full of EDS Leaders. I never forgot that teaching and have carried the lesson he taught forward. "Integrity is doing the right thing; cause its always the right thing to do." Thank you Sir for instilling Integrity in us all! Prayers of comfort lifted up for the family!

Lisa Hudson

January 10, 2019

While I didn’t know Jeff well, he always remembered my name and said hello. He was truly a kind person and sincere. That’s rare these days. My deepest sympathy to his family. I hope it is comforting to know how many people respected and truly appreciated Jeff. RIP Mr, Heller

James McCann

January 10, 2019

Jeff was a gracious , inspirational leader whose no nonsense approach to every thing helped make EDS the wonderful company it was. I only worked directly with him once during the NMCI recompile but it continues to be one of the highlights of my career. Jeff touched thousands of EDSers and their customers throughout his long and storied career as an EDS leader. Thanks Jeff and RIP.

Mike Jahrig

January 10, 2019

Of all the managers I knew in my 31 1/2 year career with EDS, Jeff was my favorite. Although I infrequently saw him, when I did, he always remembered my name. Jeff was literally one of a kind and I am so saddened to hear of his passing.

Kevin Brown

January 10, 2019

Jeff's legacy to many who were on the EDS team over many years was to bestow the value that though winning is always what one should strive for, it should only be accomplished via respect for all including your competitor, and maintaining personal integrity.

He touched many lives in a positive manner, so his memory will live on.

My thoughts are with his family.

Roger Harris

January 10, 2019

Jeff was an amazing man. I was on a special project in Geneva Switzerland and we needed money for some equipment and software. I asked the director and he said give him a couple of weeks and he would see what he could do. I was in Plano at the time and passed Jeff in the hall. He asked how it was going and I told him we needed money. His immediate response was you got it. Made my day especially when I went back to the director and told him I was all set. He almost fell out of his chair. Never had a problem getting funds out of him after that. Jeff was always willing to listen and gave great advice. I was thrilled when he came back to EDS. He truly cared about people.

RIP Jeff.

David Smith

January 10, 2019

You taught a couple of generations of EDS people about integrity, honor, pride, and respect for one another. You will always be known as the person with the highest ethics a corporation could have. Thank you for coming back out of retirement and steering the ship once again when our rudder was a foul.
RIP

Pam Watson

January 10, 2019

Jeff Heller personified the best of EDS for me. He was respectful of employees and customers. He demonstrated a true love for the company and our values, encouraging us and celebrating successes with us. Jeff was the ultimate southern gentleman. It is an honor to have known him.

Jennifer A Jafari

January 10, 2019

My deepest sympathy for Chris and Jeff's family. He was a true leader and kind soul. His demeanor and carriage always represented one who led an exemplary life. He was a natural leader, always gave his best and inspired us all. This is a great loss for all who knew him. I am grateful that he blessed my life.

Gary Klembara

January 10, 2019

Condolences to the Heller Family. Jeff was one of the most professional people I ever had the privilege to associate with at EDS.

Colleen Parker

January 10, 2019

Simply put....thank you. Thank you for mentoring all of us young corporate hires into the leaders of tomorrow. Thank you for showing us what it means to lead with integrity and service. Thank you for your calm and gentle example during difficult times. Thank you for showing us the difference between a manager and a leader. You are an example not only of how to lead, but how to live. You made us a team.

Larry Thompson

January 10, 2019

Jeff was a great leader. He set the standard for integrity and honesty.
Soar with the Eagles sir. RIP you will be missed by many.

Ranjan Misra

January 10, 2019

Jeff was a gentleman first and then a leader. He was the epitome of a servant leader! He touched many lives in the only way he knew best to do it - with compassion, humility, generosity, and selfless service. He was certainly a great influence on me and thousands of others who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. He will be missed, and we have comfort in knowing that his soul is resting in eternal peace. Keeping Carol, Debbie, the family, and friends of Jeff in our thoughts and prayers as we all mourn this great loss. RIP Jeff. Thank you for everything you did to make this world a better place.
Ranjan and Sarmita Misra

Elly Marsh

January 10, 2019

Jeff was an inspiration to us all, with his warm personality and steadfast integrity and professionalism. He always responded to speak to groups of employees, and brought life to whatever subject on which he was speaking. His leadership was natural and warmth was genuine. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, with hope that his memory brings comfort.

Bill Robertson

January 10, 2019

Jeff was a true legend, a great friend and mentor and an inspiration to many. His love and support of Camp Longhorn and the many family members that attended on his encouragement will always be appreciated. Jeff and Carol's support of Longhorn swimming and diving was always an inspiration to me and others. He was a champion in and out of the pool.
To Carol and the family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Stacey Cronin

January 10, 2019

Condolences to the Heller Family. My husband, Chris and I also have fond memories of Jeff and his leadership while at EDS. He touched many lives as both an inspirational and "real" leader who made you feel comfortable in your interactions with him. He always seemed to manage to be there for his team and was adept at guiding and inspiring but could also inject levity and humor into a situation that could otherwise be tense. I feel fortunate to have crossed his path.

Kris Kubik

January 10, 2019

From mile swims in Inks Lake at Camp Longhorn during his youth to earning All-American status in the Gregory Gym pool during his college days, Jeff left an indelible mark in the swimming world. After his military service, Carol and he became the most dedicated UT swimming and diving fans ever and attended hundreds of dual meets, Conference meets, NCAA Championships, and team banquets to offer heartfelt support year in and year out. It was always a true honor to be in his presence.
"Day is done, gone the sun, from the lakes, from the hills, from the sky. All is well, safely rest, God is nigh."

Joseph Poche

January 10, 2019

God Bless Jeff

Dennis Stolkey

January 10, 2019

Jeff Heller will be missed by many people across the world. He touched thousands directly but many more indirectly. A man known for his high integrity and selfless acts not only to Company but to Country. Thank you Jeff for everything!

Marcie Leist

January 10, 2019

Deepest sympathy to the Heller family and friends who were blessed enough to be touched by Jeff's kindness and love. I will forever be thankful for the blessing of having the opportunity to know such a wonderful caring man who truly leaves behind a legacy of a genuine heart. He was the most honorable man I ever had the pleasure to meet, friendly to everyone who passed him along the way. He will be missed but not forgotten. Rest in Peace Jeff.

Jim Nyfeler

January 10, 2019

I first met Jeff when I came to work for EDS in 1969 at Exchange Park. Since that day, I have considered him a friend and someone to rely upon. He was an honorable man, and we are all better for our association with him.
Carol and the Heller family, thank you for sharing him with us. May God be with you.

John Muscarella

January 10, 2019

Carol, Judy and I are taken back by the loss of Jeff - a great man. I worked with him or for him my entire EDS career and I could not have ever imagined working for such a wonderful person. It was May of 1970 when I started at Camp Hill and the "Mod Squad" from Dallas showed up to install a new Medicare system. I asked Jeff if he was the mainline SE and he said "You might call me that!" I told him I would work with him whenever he was working - I would be his computer operator. Little did I know that I would work over 100 hours that week and have to catch naps between the computer equipment to keep warm as Jeff worked countless hours and always looked like he just stepped out of a shower! I am proud to be able to call Jeff a distinguished colleague, a great manager and a trusted friend. I will miss him a great deal.

Judy and I have you in our thoughts and prayers - stay strong.

Elaine Lim

January 10, 2019

My deepest condolences to the Heller family. Mr. Heller was the embodiment of EDS values in action, particularly in people care - from the very first time I met him at the Asia Pacific offices, I knew right away he was the real deal - truly genuine, leading by example with integrity. With both boots firmly planted on the ground, he was humble, unassuming - yet he was larger than life. He was the best example of what it is to be a leader and had a huge impact on me.

Thank you for sharing him with the EDS family.

Karen Ritter

January 10, 2019

Carol and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. Your love and support enabled Jeff to do so much for so many in the company. Since meeting him on my first day in 1978, whenever our paths have crossed over the years, he always extended a hand, greeted me by name, and asked about my work and life. We shared many talks about our mutually beloved University of Texas. He has been a good and faithful servant to all, and I am proud to have known him.

William Wilkerson

January 10, 2019

While at EDS my division executive, Mike Littell, suffered a heart attack. Jeff had his personal physician provide intervention that saves Mike's life. Where in corporate America except at EDS would that happen?

Subsequently Mike ask me to pen a speech for Jeff. I got to hear him deliver my work to the board at Mellon Bank. He then took us to dinner and told us stories of the early days of EDS. He spent time with us to acknowledge the effort we had put into this client. That we were appreciated instilled in us the desire to truly achieve excellence for the client and for EDS.

Across the expanse of time most men leave little in the way of an impact. However, all of us will forever stand in Jeff's shadow. May his legacy continue to instill us and his memory forever bless his family.

Semper fidelis Marine. . .

Barbara Barton Weiszhaar

January 10, 2019

Prayers to Jeff's family. I am so very sorry. I had the honor of getting to know Jeff at EDS. An honorable, ethical, intelligent, strategic, kind, and all around wonderful leader. He made EDS a great place to work.... Something to be proud of.... He made the world a better place. We all have a Jeff story as he impacted everyone he met... I will continue to think of him often, and always with a smile. He did it right. He will be so incredibly missed. When I posted the sad news on facebook for an EDS grp, there was immediate reaction and comments by hundreds of people in just a few hours.... So moving to read so many tributes. Jeff was loved by all. God Bless and Prayers.

Dan James

January 10, 2019

Mr. Heller is a dear and meaningful memory for so many who encountered him.

It's likely anyone who knows me well, knows how much I loved EDS and they know my admiration and respect for Jeff Heller. Jeff made such an impression on me like he did so many others and because of very lucky interaction with him, he inspired and encouraged me to pursue challenges and achieve more. May God bless the Heller family and friends.

Tammy Norris

January 10, 2019

Prayers and condolences to the Heller family! Jeff was a gentle giant in the world of IT and blessed so many people. I will be grateful and remember him always. When I think of all my years at EDS he's at the top of my list. God speed Jeff.

Bob Hamilton

January 10, 2019

The world has become a poorer place with the passing of Jeff. What an incredible gentleman and friend. Godspeed Jeff.

Don Cleavinger

January 10, 2019

Prayers and condolences to Carol and family. Please know that your loss is heavens gain, Jeff’s up there running God's Operations Group.

I've many stories I could tell of my interactions with Jeff, from early in '74 at Exchange Park when I first met him to the $500 he gave me to give to a charity in '08 for a crazy bet I made.

After my first meeting, trust me I never sought the interactions, as for the most part they were generally not shining moments in EDS history. They were generally precipitated by one simple sentence... "CLEAVINGER....what the hell is wrong?”

Circa 1979, I was in Scheduling Backoffice preparing an early morning report on George's shift. Our boss decided since I had just been served divorce papers, I could manage George's AND my shift.... George was out rehabbing a knee operation. Our team, the Wild Bunch, had won the inaugural Forest Lane Softball Championship…. against Life Insurance.

Jeff came in about 5:30 and always wanted to know how the night went...did we get “banking” out on time? This particular morning, I was sitting in front of a terminal, typing… and fell sound asleep. Suddenly I felt a "presence" woke up and there was Jeff staring at me. He made one of his normal "Cleavinger" comments...told me to finish the report and bring it down to his office.

I did...fully expecting him to fire me for sleeping on the job...it was 1979.

We went over the report...then he asked me about my DIVORCE situation. It shocked me that he knew anything about it. He gave me some sage marital advice, then told me to get some rest and that he appreciated what we were doing to get clients batch work done on time. He never said a word about my sleeping on the job…He could have fired me on the spot.

A true leader of people...

We've lost one of the best of the best.

Rest in peace my friend...save me a good spot in the Backoffice.... I’ll be up there soon enough to do your "morning report".

Don

Charles Robinson)

January 9, 2019

When I retired with over 36 years of employment with EDS at the end of 2007, I received not so much as a thank you or goodbye from my EDS manager. Jeff called me personally a couple of months later and thanked me - and it meant a lot to me. He was the best of EDS.

Lee Smith

January 9, 2019

Jeff Heller was a very unique and gifted individual. As a young manager, I was assigned to his financial team in Detroit and relocated to Plano when he returned to Dallas. Jeff became an early mentor whom I tried hard to emulate in both my perfessional and personal life. To Carol and his family, “Thank You” for sharing Jeff with so many of us who looked to him for leadership and advice. Whenever we talk about the golden days at EDS, Jeff’s name is always mentioned simply because he was admired by so many of us, the EDS family.

Maria Meleca

January 9, 2019

I’m so very sorry for your loss. Mr. Heller was so widely respected by everyone at EDS. I can remember him rearranging his schedule and coming down personally to spend time one - on - one with an employee that was retiring after 40+ years with the company. That 20 minute conversation meant the world to that individual. He truly led by example with honesty and humility, Thoughts and prayers to you and may you find some comfort knowing just how many people’s lives were changed for the better because of him.

Myrna Vance

January 9, 2019

Jeff epitomized the best of EDS. His leadership, compassion and genuine regard for everyone will be missed. Carol and family, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Jeff will always be remembered as one of the best. He will live forever in our hearts!

Rafael and Michèle Coquis

January 9, 2019

Jeff was one of the finest and most decent men we've ever known. In my opinion, he was the EDS rock. We still remember the joy that went through our teams when we heard Jeff was back from retirement to lead us through our largest and most challenging contract. You could always count on Jeff to know and do the right thing, and his kind and gentlemanly manner was always a pleasure to encounter. Rafael and I send our deepest condolences to Carol and family. We hope you are comforted by the many, many similar comments you read here.

Meena Chakraborty

January 9, 2019

The world has lost an amazing person. A leader like Jeff only walks across the Earth every once in a while. The old EDS employees still talk of EDS with pride and nostalgia. Leaders like Jeff are what made EDS a great company. Condolences to his family. He will be missed by many.

Maloy Jones

January 9, 2019

I met Jeff shortly after I joined EDS in 1971 and had the opportunity to interact with him throughout most of my career with EDS. He attended my retirement event when I retired in 2006. He was a tremendous individual who guided EDS through many years, some of them difficult, after the coming and going of Dick Brown. Jeff was always the person that everyone depended on when things were not going well. I had tremendous respect for him. He was a great man,,,,,very honest and sincere in his care for the company and the people who worked there.
Maloy Jones

Becky and Jim Duckels

January 9, 2019

So many memories. We would like to speak about our personal memories of Jeff. When we lost our Son Colby, in 2005, I’ll never forget walking in to the funeral service and seeing Jeff. Taking time out of his busy schedule to honor our Son meant so much to us. . Later that same year, we lost our dear friend Joe Cothran. Again, without hesitation, Jeff was there, offering help with anything Mary, and Joe’s family and friends needed. Just an example of our EDS family. Jeff, you will be missed, but never forgotten! Rest In Peace.

Chris Van Arsdel

January 9, 2019

My condolences to the entire Heller family.

And as you know Jeff was a giant among us even while acting like a servant. His life was a testament to his faith, his ability and determination and I know the support of his family. I count working in his organization and knowing him even just a little as one of the great experiences in my life. May he Rest In Peace.

David Benners

January 9, 2019

My condolences to the Heller family. Jeff was a great man. I had the honor to meet him in 1980, shortly after joining EDS. His leadership, compassion and business acumen were second to none. I learned much working under his leadership. The world has lost a great leader and a great human. RIP Jeff

Greg France

January 9, 2019

My sincerest sympathy to the Heller family for their loss. Jeff was a great inspiration to me throughout my years with EDS. Each time I interacted with Jeff, and began to re-introduce myself, he would surprise me, know my name and give me a hardy handshake and a relevant greeting to my current role. Jeff always exemplified and lead with integrity, honesty, and a no nonsense, straight-shooting leadership style. I will always remember Jeff, and the leadership and kindness he showed to me and my family.

Greg Spencer

January 9, 2019

I started at EDS in 1984 and immediately began producing slide presentations for the Officers. Jeff Heller was always kind, professional and a true gentleman! Jeff always had a spare piece of bubble gum in his pocket, if you needed one! He will be missed.

Marsha Clark

January 9, 2019

To Carol, Debbie and the entire Heller family, my deepest sympathies. Everyone who knew Jeff loved and respected him. He was a great leader, mentor, and friend to so many. He was my last boss at EDS. He so truly cared about the EDS family, second only to his Heller family. My heart is breaking and my thoughts and prayers are with you. With much love and gratitude for having known Jeff.

Marsha Clark

Carl Borg

January 9, 2019

I met this man exactly one time... a "diagonal slice" meeting at EDS. A gentleman through and through, he made a tremendous impression on me. Hearing of his passing saddens me greatly... business and the world at large needs more like him, not less. May the family know this man touched many, many others... even if only briefly... in a very positive manner.

Rick Lottie

January 9, 2019

No finer gentleman ever existed. He was a Marine, a Marine A-4 pilot, to be exact, and he always carried that with him, in his bearing, his sense of honor, and his devotion to this thing called duty.

Jeff loved people, and it showed. I swear, he had no enemies, and never did I hear a bad word about him, or from him about anyone. His level of common sense was uncommonly good, enabling him to cut through the complexities in ways others could readily understand.

The other thing that always struck me about Jeff was his humility. Listening to him, you’d think he did nothing. No, the credit always went to others. That, too, was part of the Marine officer in him — putting himself last, after the job and the people.

The world has lost a prince of a man, a man who served his country, helped build a great company in EDS, and who truly loved his family and the people around him.

Semper Fidelis, Jeff Heller, as you are now among the Marines who guard the streets in heaven’s scenes. May you rest in peace, and may your family find solace in knowing you were loved by thousands.

Mike Littell

January 9, 2019

Jeff was my brother in arms in the Marines and my mentor and personal friend in business . Always welling to listen , advice and coach me . He personally saved my life in 1991 while serving in Houston . Wooden Ships will sail , Iron ships will sail , and steel ships will sail and go . But friendships will last forever . May God continue to keep his hand of blessing upon your head . Semper fi Marine !

Lane Worthen

January 9, 2019

I moved to Texas and went to work for EDS in 1978. Having been raised in a rural area of Kansas I was pretty used to people who were laid back and easy going. I had some of the best managers in EDS to work for and Jeff is certainly one of the best I ever met. He was easy going and laid back... unless he wanted to get something done. Then he went about it like a journeyman with all the energy and enthusiasm that could be imagined. He was good to people which is what I like in anyone I work for. I did not interact with him a lot and yet I felt close to him. An affect he had on many people because of his goodness and caring ways. I believe he inspired and installed that in everyone he dealt with. I cannot possibly say enough good things about him and was sure enough sad when he came to talk to me down in the basement where I sat not long before it was announced that HP would purchase our company. I could feel his sadness that day. It had been a wonderful company to work for and largely because of him. After that I was laid off within a few months to start another chapter in my life, but I will forever be thankful & eternally grateful to have know such a good man as Jeff Heller.

Kim Hawthorne

January 9, 2019

Mr. Heller was a kind, motivating and inspiring leader and mentor who left all whomever worked with him at EDS a sense of pride. My meetings with him left me feeling confident and empowered. He nurtured a great and powerful community. Words cannot describe the depth of dignity and humility that Mr. Heller showed us all. He will be so missed. RIP Jeff, you did great by all of us and we are grateful.

craig niemiec

January 9, 2019

Thoughts and prayers for Jeff and his family. Character, Integrity, Empathy and Humility, all attributes of truly a great leader and a great man. I had the privilege of working for Jeff for many years while at EDS and he was truly the one leader everyone could trust and respect in good times and in challenging times. God Bless!

Pat Snow

January 9, 2019

Jeff made an impact on so many people just by being himself. His compass always showed true North, he knew no other way than the right way. His morals were never compromised, his compassion showed in everything he did. In all my years at EDS, he was the executive who made the most impact on me as being approachable and believable. His sense of humor was tremendous. He truly cared about the company and the people and the customers. Reading all the stories and the memories since his passing say so much about his character and the type of man Jeff was. I wish we still had leaders like him to follow today. My sincere thoughts and prayers to Jeff's family in this time of loss. He was one of the great ones.

Eileen McFarlane

January 9, 2019

My sympathies to Jeff's family. I hope, and I know, that the wonderful memories you have of him will sustain you during this great loss. I met him once, a long time ago, and was so impressed how EVERYONE spoke so highly of him, his intelligence and great leadership. A wonderful legacy! God bless...

Bob Allen

January 9, 2019

I had the opportunity to speak with Jeff on several occasions and he was always available, listening, and respectful of my comments. I owe much of my career success to Jeff’s advice. A true gentleman that understood leadership was about treating everyone with dignity. I’ll never forget his suggestion that one of the best books to read to improve one’s leadership skills, was the “Book of Proverbs”.

RIP Sir…

Jim McCown

January 9, 2019

I met Jeff not long after I moved from GM to EDS. We went on to become friends and I ended up briefing him many times over the years. He was one of the most nice man I had worked with. We enjoyed he and his wife at many functions and parties. I was able to get him to shoot a video in the ring with a wrestler for CA Word one year. He was great.
We are so sorry for his loss and he will be missed not only by his family but all who new him

Jeff Kelly

January 9, 2019

Jeff's moral and ethical standard across so many years at EDS will be remembered by many as it ran through the entire fabric of the company. For me, he was the definition of honesty, integrity and an example to all that worked for him. The EDS alumni, the Dallas community and so many friends feel this loss today. I will miss that Texas smile and drawl of his.

Carol and family.......I'm so sorry for loss but I know he is in great hands this day.

Mike Klaus

January 9, 2019

Jeff was the first executive I interviewed with from the board. He was extremely open and brutally honest with me. His style mesmerized me and simply made me want to be a part of the company he loved so deeply. My deepest sympathies to his family and all those who knew and loved him.

Vicki Laurie

January 9, 2019

Jeff made so much impact on so many lives - how to be a genuine friend, an openly loving family man and a fair, transparent leader. He is the lodestone for many - who we aspire to be in our personal and professional lives. What a beautiful and deserved legacy. This must be quite a shock to family and friends but our hearts are with you.

Pat Costa

January 9, 2019

My thoughts and prayers are with Carol, Debbie and the Heller family. It was an honor to work with Jeff and to be his friend. He was such a wonderful man, mentor and leader. I am heartbroken and so very sad.

susan giesing

January 9, 2019

I remember Mr. Heller's presence when he entered a room. Such a gentleman and such a kind man. So very thoughtful and responsive. He was loved and respected by many and will be greatly missed. My prayers go out to the family, may you be comforted in this time of loss, knowing he was greatly loved, respected and admired by many.
Susan Giesing

Paola Arbour

January 9, 2019

It was an honor to work for Jeff - he was a gentleman, kind and humble yet strong and intelligent. Never too busy to support his team, the company or the customer - a servant leader with a passion for teams and customer service. Loved his family and his community
A very giving and honest man who will be revered and admired forever .
My deepest sympathies to all who loved him

FROM THE FAMILY