Columbia: James R. Heckman, Jr., 80, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 21st, 2021. He was born on June 4, 1941 in Jersey City, NJ to the late James R. and Frances (Bertram) Heckman. As a child, he grew up in the New Jersey town of Budd Lake, where he graduated from West Morris High School. He served in the Army National Guard and was an electrician and long time member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 581 before his retirement.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Jane (Bower) Heckman, daughters Christine Chardo (Francis) and Trish Gegenfurtner (Matthew), and his five grandchildren, Matthew James, Catherine Grace, Nicole Reese, Sophie Bridget, and Emma Grace, all of whom he cherished. He was predeceased by his brother Louis G. Heckman, and survived by his sister Joann.
Jim was an avid pilot and polished drummer throughout his life. He loved oldies music, spending time with family and friends, and making people laugh. He was an outstanding and talented craftsman who was known for his meticulous handiwork. Family and friends will remember Jim for his engaging sense of humor, his kind heart, and his unwavering dedication to his family.
A funeral mass will take place at St. Jude Thaddeus Roman Catholic Church, Budd Lake, NJ on Saturday, November 13th at 10:30am. Interment will follow at Stanhope Union Cemetery. A luncheon to celebrate Jim’s life will follow at The Meadow Wood in Randolph, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society in Jim’s memory.
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