Norman Arthur Walter Heckendorf, age 94, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022 at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, Wis. He was born on July 12, 1928 to the late Max and Margaret (Schawrtz) Heckendorf in Merrill, Wis.

Norman married Helen M. Launderville, who preceded him in death Nov. 22, 2004.

In Norman’s earlier years, he enjoyed snowmobiling with his wife and brother Red and his wife Margie. He loved being in nature, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and feeding the birds. For 20 years, Norman had a tree farm and before retirement he worked as a real estate agent.

Music was a big part of Norman’s life. He was a singer within the Barbershop Quartet for most of his life and also sang in the church choir at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ.

Norman is survived by his children: John (Susan) Heckendorf, Garth (Carrie) Heckendorf, and Karen (Scott) Nelson; grandchildren: Desirae (Chad) Reece, Danielle (Adam) Reich, Jeremey Heckendorf, Nicholas Nesbitt, Ashlee Nesbitt and Melissa (Joe) Curran; great grandchildren: Caden Reece, Cole Reece, and Spencer Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Helen, eight brothers and sisters and grandson Matthew Nelson.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Waid Funeral Home. A visitation was held on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022 from 9 a.m. until the time of service also at the funeral home. Interment at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.

For those unable to attend, the service was livestreamed and will be available for viewing under his obituary on the funeral home website.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the River Bend Trail in memory of Norman. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.