David C. Heins

David Heins, age 78 of Erie, CO, passed away January 2, 2025. David was born November 25, 1946 in Hillsdale, New Jersey to Arthur and Martha Heins. After graduating from Culver-Stockton College, David went on to work as a case worker for Bergen County Welfare Board, where he met his sweetheart, Carlota Cora. He then served in the US Army in Vietnam, and returned to be rewarded with the Bronze Star Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. A short time after, he married Carlota at Church of the Savior in Paramus. They settled in the Pine Barrens of NJ, where they raised their three children.

David spent many years of his career advocating for those in need as Director of the NJ Department of Human Services & Family Development. He was recognized in 2000 by Legal Services for his extraordinary contributions and lifelong professional dedication to assisting welfare recipients with special compassion and vision, and was awarded an Equal Justice Medal. He retired as Deputy Commissioner of Human Services of the State of NJ in 2003.

David’s hobbies included gardening and traveling the world with his beloved wife. David and Carlota grew to love snorkeling the coral reefs, exploring every island in the Caribbean, and favoring St. John, USVI, where they would later bring their children and grandchildren every year. We would be remiss if David’s enthusiastic support of the Philadelphia Eagles wasn’t mentioned. He instilled this passion in his wife and children, turning game days into memorable family traditions.

David will be dearly missed by family and friends. His family was his pride and joy and his greatest role in his life was being a Grandpa to his grandchildren. He showed unconditional love and didn't hesitate to help anyone in need.

He is survived by his wife, Carlota; three children and daughter-in-law, Devanand, Veronica, and Gregory and Kathryn; his brother and sister, Paul (Ursula), and Ruth (Alan); his grandchildren, Megan, Gianna, Michael, Amaya, Athanasio, Nayeli, Brynn, Arthur, Zechariah and Christian.

A Celebration of Life will be held in David’s honor on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 1:00PM at The Community House in Moorestown, NJ.