Donald Eugene Heckler, born October 2, 1927 originally from
Windber, PA, died peacefully in his sleep at Seagrass Village in
Port Orange, FL on February 25, 2024 after a brief illness. His
devoted wife of 71 years, Cecelia (Kanas) Heckler, was by his
side, just as he had hoped and prayed. He loved her dearly.
Don was a proud veteran of the nascent U.S. Air Force, where he
had an opportunity to work on airfields in many parts of the nation.
Afterward, he had many jobs—millworker, gas station attendant,
policeman, X-ray technician, but what brought him the most
satisfaction was his "retirement job" as a commercial bus driver.
He shuttled groups all over the country, reveling in the enduring
thrill of being in motion. Family vacations were cross-country
adventures; motorcycles, boats, and snowmobiles kept him
moving year-round and gave him the opportunity to visit all 50
states.
He loved his hometown, and he loved his church family, living
most of his married life in a house that he and his father built with
their own hands, on land that had been in the family over a
century. Don was a leader in many civic organizations including
terms as Worshipful Master of the Greater Johnstown Lodge of
the Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, President of the
Windber Fire Company, Paint Township Chief of Police, and
President of the Windber Lions Club. He was a deacon of the
Rummel Church of the Brethren and served as its treasurer for
many years.
In addition to his wife, Cecelia; Don is survived by his sons and
their spouses: Mark Heckler (Veronica) of Naples, FL and Brian
Heckler (Coley Gallagher) of New Smyrna Beach, FL; along with
grandchildren, Zachary Heckler of Lakewood, CO, Jocelyn
Earnest Heckler (Evan Earnest) of Spring, TX, Miranda Jack
(Clifford) of Lafayette, IN, Susanne Johnson (Jonathan) of

Indianapolis, IN; and grandchildren, Sarah Heckler of Cary, NC,
Joshua Heckler of Bend, OR, Nathaniel Heckler of Clemson, SC,
and Samuel Heckler of New Smyrna Beach, Fl; as well as 13
great grandchildren ages 18 months to 11 years. He is
additionally survived by his brother, James Heckler (Kathy) of
North Hollywood, CA.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Amelia (Pearce) and
Steward William Heckler, Jr.; and brother, Robert Heckler.
A family service will be held in Port Orange, with a memorial
service planned in Windber, PA at a later date. The family asks
that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Memorial
Fund at the Rummel Church of the Brethren, 3432 Graham
Avenue, Windber, PA 15963. For online condolences please visit
Donald's tribute page at www.lohmanfuneralhome.com/obit .