May 25, 1925 - March 1, 2021
Art, 95, passed away peacefully in his Charlotte home on Monday, March 1, 2021 with his beloved wife Carole by his side.
Born to Arthur Earnest Heisler and Arlene Charlotte Barleman in Chicago, IL, Art attended secondary school in North Chicago. In 1943 at age 18 he enlisted in the Army Air Corps during World War II in hope of becoming an officer and pilot. He became a lieutenant and got his 'wings' in 1944, certified as a four-engine bomber. Art joked that he was the only pilot in the war who didn't yet shave.
He served as an Air Force Warrant Officer in the Korean Conflict and was stationed at the New Mexico Missile Test Range from 1957-1959 and Orlando Air Force Base from 1960-1964.
In 1960 he married Carole Martin and transferred to Sembach Air Force Base, Germany to serve under the Strategic Air Command in 1964. In 1966 they transferred to Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri and in 1968 Art retired from the Air Force after 26 years of service. The family returned to Orlando.
Art's second career was as a licensed Master Electrician in Orlando. His third and final career began in 1988 when he joined Walt Disney World as a Production Artist. His final retirement was in 1997.
Art and Carole's passion for travel took them on adventures all over the world with their dearest friends, Tom and Ila Bower and Allen and Kathy Broyles.
In 2004 Art and Carole relocated to Charlotte, NC.
Art was a "Jack-of-all-trades" who was always willing to lend a hand to family, neighbors and friends on any project they might need, but he was particularly fond of furniture making and fine wood carving – a hobby he worked on in his home 'shop' until two weeks before his passing. He was an active member and teacher in the Charlotte Woodcarvers' Club, where he is remembered as a generous mentor and story-teller. His dry wit, zest for life and outspoken opinions made him one with the "Greatest Generation". He was intensely proud of his military service, his country and his family.
Art is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Carole Heisler and children, Ellen Heisler Burgess (Jim), Wanda Heisler Jennings, Arthur E. Heisler III, Deborah Martin Goodman, Stephen Martin (Vicki), and Cheryl Heisler Wagner (John). He was 'Papa' to eleven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and four great great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by son, Gregory Martin; grandson, Arthur E. Heisler IV; great-granddaughter, Tricia James; and two sisters, Phyllis Taylor and Arlene Wynowski.
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