John "Jack" Carl Heilman

John “Jack” C. Heilman passed away on June 17, 2024. 

 He was born in Kaukauna on November 26, 1937, to Woodrow and Elizabeth (Van Linn) Heilman. 

 He was an active member of the Army from 1966-1968. He then married Joan (Liebergen) Heilman on April 20, 1960, they enjoyed 41 years of marriage while raising their three children, she preceded him in death on June 6, 2001. He then met his very special friend Phyllis Smits, whom he spent the next 21 years with enjoying trips to Florida, “Up North” and Lake Poygan. 

 Jack enjoyed spending much of his time at his cherished escape “up north” where he enjoyed hunting, splitting wood and countless hours casting lines. He passed his love of fishing down to his kids, grandkids and great grandkids. He will be remembered for his Manhattans and the delicious fish fries. He always had the right tool for the job and was willing to lend a hand. Jack possessed the remarkable skill of witching wells as many witnessed this gift. 

 Jack dedicated his career of many years to Thilmany where he made lifelong friends as a skilled pipefitter, sharing his knowledge and talents diligently until his retirement. 

 He is survived by three children, Dawn (Robert) Dercks and their children Danielle (Paul) Prentice, Brian (special friend Noell), and Nick (fiancé Morgan); Diane (Gary) Soltwisch and their children Greg (Lauren), Lindsay (Eric) Van Geem, and Sam (special friend Mary); Bill (Ann) Heilman and their children Jon and Becca. In addition, great-grandchildren Joni and Mason Prentice, Ethan Dercks, Emmett and Beau Soltwisch; a brother, Bob (Monika) Heilman, sister-in-law Diane very (Madonna) Heilman. He is also survived by Joan’s family, Jerry (Judy) Liebergen and Lois (Todd) Luedtke and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

 Preceded in death by his parents, his brothers William and Jim, Joan’s parents, Willard (Eileen) Liebergen and a brother Bill Liebergen. 

 Our family would like extent their sincere gratitude to Phyllis, ThedaCare Hospice nurses Ben and Angie, and all the friends and family that stopped to visit. 

 Per Jack’s wishes there will not be a funeral service.