Richard Thomas Heegeman

Richard “Dick” Heegeman, 72, passed away peacefully on November 9 surrounded by his children. 

Dick was born in Appleton to the late Robert and Betty Heegeman. He was the eldest son of the family. He is survived by his sister Beverly “Sues” Vandenberg, Janice (Terry) Staedt, and Ted (Cindy) Heegeman, all of Appleton. He was preceded in death by his sister Barb (Ned) Corroy, and brothers Jim (Becky) Heegeman and Bob Heegeman. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He especially loved spending time hunting and fishing with his cousins Rick Schroeder and Steve (Joan) Woldt, whom he considered life long friends. 

Dick was blessed with three children with his first wife JoAnn Heegeman of Appleton: Jeff (Rebecca) Heegeman, of Greenville, Greg (Tanya Albrecht) Heegeman, of Greenville, and Amy (Luke) Menchl of Neenah. He was further blessed with six amazing grandchildren whom he adored: Allison, Evelyn, Hannah, Henry, Jacob, and Brooklyn. Spending time with his family brought him immense joy and he loved any time the family was able to get together. He shared with them all his love of being by the water, fishing, and finding happiness in the simple things of life. He loved watching his grandchildren play sports, dance, perform in plays and concerts, and attending their school events. His love for them was unconditional and he cherished the time they had together.

Dick worked as a mechanic for most of his life, starting his career at Grishaber’s when he was in high school. He worked at Cloud Buick and Bergstrom Saturn, and ended his career working at Gustman’s in Kaukauna. Throughout this time he developed long standing friendships. He worked hard, and enjoyed what he did. He provided a great life for his family and taught his children the importance of a good work ethic.

He filled his time with many hobbies. In 1984 he purchased his property on Tree Lake in Rosholt. He spent 36 years fishing, hunting, and making memories there and it was a place he found true happiness. In 2021 he built his house on the channel of Lake Winnebago and he never stopped reveling in the joy of walking out his door and being able to hop on his boat and go. His cottage and home were adorned by his fishing and hunting prizes and he filled our lives with stories that were, of course, all true. In addition to hunting and fishing he loved playing cribbage with anyone, but especially his buddies at the Cheatin’ Heart, wood working, and grabbing a drink or meal with a friend. 

Earlier this year he met his special friend Anne who became a very important person in his life. He lit up everytime she was around or he spoke of her. They enjoyed sharing stories and spending time together. Anne was a great comfort to Dick and his family these past few months and everyone is grateful they had this time together. 

The family would like to extend their deep appreciation to the nursing staff at Affinity St. Elizabeth’s ICU and all the staff at the Wachtel Cancer Center in Oshkosh. We will always remember the kindness and compassion shown to Dick and his family during this journey.

He was known to many as Dick, but to us he was Dad, Fishing Grandpa and the Dickster. We love you. 

His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ (Matthew 25:23)

There will be a Celebration of Life for Richard at Wichmann Tri County Chapel (1592 S. Oneida St., Menasha, WI 54952) on Sunday, November 17, 2024 with visitation time from 1:00 pm until the time of service at 3:00 pm.