Darrell C Heeter

It is with extreme sadness that we share the passing of our beloved hero, Darrell Heeter, after a devasting struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.

He was born to Darrell and Hazel (Stanley) Heeter on March 8, 1942. He grew up in Mishawaka, graduating from MHS in 1960, planning on college to become a history teacher. Then he met Karen, the rest is history of their 61-year marriage. They married on January 26, 1963 at East Methodist Church.

He is survived by son Shawn and daughter Stacie (Craig) Ceasar and his best buddy, grandson Shawn Ceasar. There are two bonus granddaughters; Nicole Staats and Danielle Spatchek, and seven loved great-grandchildren, all of Wisconsin. His brothers James (Joan) and Gene (Donna), and sister Joann also survive him. Also surviving are his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Sandra and Tom Rice of Florida.

Darrell joined the Mishawaka Fire Department in 1970 and spent 33 years on the force. He was active in the local 360 and was secretary of The Indiana Firefighters Bowling Association for 30 years. He loved many sports; bowling, fishing, slow pitch softball, darts, and golf, saying that golf was the hardest. Even though he had a hole in one; he never mastered the game but loved it anyway.

He was a member of Club 15 and Diloreto Club and former member of BK & DiAmicis.

Many “thank you’s” to all family and friends who have been supportive during this horrific journey. A special thanks to Bill and Lorraine Cochran for taking us fishing, He was very happy he caught the “big one”!

Also surviving, his devoted husky, Molly, who he walked every day and she was constantly at his feet. Being a huge ND fan we were able to attend several games over the years. Also went to Curaçao Aruba, Florida, and Vegas, which was our favorite spot.

Darrell was a great family man loving us all unconditionally. Some of our best times were on the patio listening to Oldies. We will love you and miss you forever.

Heritage Point was his home for one year. We thank them for their love and care. He lived at Trail Point for 6 weeks. The staff was fantastic and he was well cared for, especially Sarah and Red from Elara Caring Hospice. They were our angels.

There will be a visitation on Saturday March 30, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. with a service at 5:00 p.m. at Palmer Funeral Home ~ Bubb Chapel, 3910 N. Main Street, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.

Memorial contributions in Darrell’s memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 111 Sunnybrook Ct, South Bend, IN 46637.

Those who wish to remember Darrell and share their condolences with his family may do so online at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.