John Richard Heisner

May 11, 1947 - June 21, 2022

PALM DESERT — John Richard Heisner, age 75, passed away at his home in Palm Desert, California on June 21, 2022.

Born in Dinuba, California to Bob and Elinor Heisner on May 11, 1947, John graduated Westchester High School in 1965. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon in 1969, John obtained his law degree from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1972, was admitted to the California Bar Association in 1973, and went on to perform over 100 jury trials. He worked as a Deputy District Attorney in San Diego for over 13 years, as Litigation Chair at the law firm of Sullivan Hill, and then as President of his own firm, Heisner APC.

John was active throughout his community serving as Trustee for the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and as an Adjunct Professor at the USD School of Law. John was also a member of Amity Masonic Lodge #442 and an active Freemason for over 53 years. As a Freemason John was highly respected receiving a 33rd degree from the San Diego Scottish Rite, and serving as Personal Representative for Coachella Valley. During his illustrious Masonic career he was a tireless advocate for children, the elderly, and public education, serving in numerous roles and capacities, including Chairman of the Masonic Homes of California and California Masonic Foundation, and as the Grand Master of Masons in California in 2016/2017.

He was a professional piano player in his youth and an avid golfer, who in later life went on to become a prolific author, publishing four books, two of which are in the Library of Congress.

John married Margo Cook on April 17, 1982 in Bonita, California. John and Margo were active in many San Diego charities including Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital and Raising a Reader.

John was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Margo; four children, nine grandchildren, two sistersin-law, one brother-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 AM on July 31st at the San Diego Scottish Rite Center. Memorials may be given to the Ritecare Childhood Language Centers of California or the Masonic Homes of California.

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