Jim was an inspiration to his family through his easy-going personality, never-ending willingness to help others, focus on quality in everything he did and faith in God. Loving family members include his wife of 62 years Norma; children Eric (Dawn) Heins of Monroe, Michigan, Krista Heins of Delaware, Ohio, Dayna (Zack) Matthews of Riley, Michigan, and Kevin Heins of Rochester Hills; his sister Hazel (Leonard) Sass of Interlochen, Mich.; 14 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and 16 nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by parents Walter and Esther Heins, brother Ed Heins, and son-in-law Jack Knapp.
For more than 60 years, Jim was a self-employed master craftsman, creating beauty in the homes of many area residents. All of his handiwork was made with such pride and by giving his best to his customers; when at home, Jim enjoyed gardening and landscaping, building and tending to his koi pond, and constantly working on a house project that never seemed to get finished.
His church family was also central to his life. As one of the early members of St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester, Jim was active as a trustee and served in various other roles and committees over the past 55 years there. He was a long time member of the church's Male Choir and Adult Choir. Jim's family especially wants to thank the congregation for their prayers, visits and caring thoughts during his illness.
Memorials in Jim's name may be made to the St. John Lutheran Church & School Foundation or Music Fund, 1011 W. University Drive, Rochester, MI 48307.
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