John G. Heidecker

John G. Heidecker, age 79, of Willmar and formerly of Pennock, passed away Wednesday, December 29, at St. John’s Hospital in Maplewood.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 15, at the A/G Church in Willmar. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Arrangements are with Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. www.petersonbrothers.com

John George Heidecker was born on September 12, 1942, in Castlewood, South Dakota, the son of Wilhelm “William” and Mildred (Widman) Heidecker. He grew up and received his education in the Maynard community and then joined his father in their family farming operations. John was raised in the Baptist faith. On July 2, 1961, John was united in marriage to Delores Joan Nelson at her parents home. They lived West of Willmar and farmed dairy, crops and cattle. John enjoyed fishing, gardening and old tractors.

He is survived by his four children, Richard (and Theresa) Heidecker of Willmar, Jim (and Amy) Heidecker of Rapid City, South Dakota, Linda (and Brian) Hinkemeyer of Pennock and Lisa Heidecker of Lake Lillian; twelve grandchildren; six great grandchildren and two sisters, May Evarts of Garland, Texas and Nellie (and Chuck) Martin of Ocala, Florida, besides other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter-in-law, Lisa Heidecker (Schmitz); one grandson, Jeremy Hinkemeyer; two brothers, Bill and Bob Heidecker and two sisters, Annie Angrimson and Mary Prins.