Joseph E. Heck, Jr.

It is with great sadness that the family of Joseph E. Heck, Jr. of Rochester Hills, MI (formerly of Warren, MI), announces his peaceful passing at the age of 99.  

Joe will be lovingly remembered as an outstanding father to his seven children – Darlene (Phil) Goy, Kathy (Gary) Seraphinoff, Linda (Rich) Squire, Joseph (Brenda), Janice (Scott) Seidell, Larry (Carla), and Leslie.  He was a devoted grandfather of fifteen and great grandfather of fourteen.  He will also be missed by his dear sister, Marie, and his many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.  Joe is preceded in death by his loving wife of 53 years, Shirley, and his brother Paul.  Joe was born in 1921 in Detroit, MI, to Joseph and Caroline Heck. 

He proudly served in the U.S. Army in the Philippines during World War II.  In 1950 he married Shirley and had a 30-year career at General Motors in vehicle engineering.  He enjoyed 33 years in retirement, keeping active and volunteering his time and talents at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church and Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital.  He was known in his neighborhood for his daily walks, regardless of inclement weather.  Joe was active in a Warren senior tennis group and continued his daily workouts at the Warren Community Center until the age of 96. 

He will always be remembered for his devout Catholic faith, beaming smile, easy laugh, and hearty appetite on display at the large family gatherings he presided over.  His encouraging words and sincere expression of love for his family will be felt and cherished forever. 

Instate Saturday, January 16, 2021 at 10:30 am until time of Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 31555 Hoover Road, Warren, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Solanus Casey Center, Detroit, a Ministry of the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph.  You can find further information at solanuscenter.org.