Melvin Heftler

Born on May 13, 1936, in New York City, Melvin Heftler will forever be remembered for his lively personality and quick-witted entertaining sense of humor. Melvin grew up in the Bronx, which led him to be a natural born, die-hard Yankee fan.

Throughout his 87 years, he made friends wherever he went. Shortly after high school, Mel joined his cousin in the army in 1957. When his CO learned he played the Saxophone, he was assigned to the Army's touring band and traveled all throughout Europe entertaining our troops during their deployment. After his honorable discharge in 1959 he soon met his future wife and love of his life, Jeanne, on a blind date. Mel and Jeanne married in November of 1963 and started their life together in Flushing Meadow park not far from the World's Fair Pavilion. Their first daughter, Donna, was born a few years later in 1966. By 1968 Mel moved his young family "out on the Island'' where he flourished during the real estate boom as a supplier of lumber and building supplies to most of the major contractors of the day. Shortly thereafter, Mel was blessed with his second daughter, Sharon. Raising his family in the comforts of Lake Grove, Mel thrived in his career in sales and was an active member of the Knights of Pythias and served a term as their Chancellor Commander. Fortunate to enjoy an early retirement, Mel lived in; Medford, Commack, and Delray Beach, FL. He loved the sun, loved to swim and would never turn down a friendly game of poker or blackjack with his cronies. He devoted his heart to his wife, Jeanne. He was a loving father to his children, Donna and Sharon. He loved and adored his grandchildren, Jared, Josh, Brandon, and Ava.

As his health declined, Mel moved back up north to Long Island to Sunrise Senior Living of Smithtown and was surrounded by his family during his final hours. He knew he was loved and has left his mark on all of those who knew him.

He is now reunited with his true love, Jeanne.

“In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Tisch MS Research Center of New York. This link will access the website www.tischms.org/donate. Please include the name, Melvin Heftler, when selecting, “I’d like to dedicate this donation to someone.”