WILLIE (BILL) HEIDINGER

Willie (Bill) Heidinger passed away peacefully at home at the age of 92 while surrounded by his family on December 7, 2016. Son of Michael and Rose Heidinger, he was born on March 16, 1924 in Jud, North Dakota. Willie was one of the middle children and the last remaining of 12. He grew up on the family farm in ND where he developed a strong work ethic by helping with the family chores. He continued this determined work ethic throughout his life by working at Holz Rubber in Lodi, CA for 24 years. He retired only to start a lawn maintenance business that kept him busy until he was almost 90. This sense of duty and responsibility kept him young and active his entire life.

He married his wife of 66 years, Gertie Wiederrich on Sept 24, 1950. They bought the family farm in Jud, ND from his mother and started a family for themselves. After 10 years of farm life they decided to pack up the station wagon, sell the farm, and make the trek to CA to be closer to family that had already migrated and settled in Lodi. Willie was faithful to his Lord and was a member of St. Peters Lutheran Church for 56 years. He was an active member in the community and every stranger he met became a lifelong friend. Willie joined many clubs in Lodi and served on committees for the Moose Lodge, the Dakota Club, and the Italian Club.

He loved his wife, and his family more than anything. He was devoted to his wife, Gertie and were inseparable up until the very end. Willie is survived by his four children, Jeff Heidinger (Juli), Debbie Warren (Larry), Chuck Heidinger (Diana) and Sheila Webb (Bruce). His grandchildren, Diane Underwood, David Warren, Jill Pauli, Joelle Mosso, Cierra and Daniel Webb in addition to 3 great grandchildren. Willie was a vibrant soul and there was never a dull moment at Bill and Gertie’s house. You could always count on him to provide a toast for any occasion. Life, love, and family was to be celebrated. He will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Viewing will be Dec. 12 from 11a-5p, and Dec. 13 from 10a-8p. Committal service to be held Dec. 14 at Cherokee Memorial Park at 10am with Memorial Service and luncheon reception to follow at 11am at St. Peters Lutheran Church.

Please sign the guest book at www.lodinews.com/ guestbook.