John H Heidtke

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, John Heidtke, 78, joined his wife, Irene “Rene”, and many other relatives and friends who had preceded him in death. A longtime resident of the Blue Water Area, John lived with his daughter, Jeanne, in West Michigan since 2014.

John was born August 4, 1946 in Woodstock, Illinois. He credited his parents, the late Harry and Rufina Heidtke, for his appreciation of nature. His dad taught him how to fish. His godmother, Aunt Emm, resided in a log cabin surrounded by dense woods and demonstrated to John at a young age how to live in harmony with the outdoors. These experiences shaped his outlook and publications.

John’s book, “Getting Down to Earth”, explored values which connect people to nature. “A Summer Passage at Sutters Bay”, received praise from legendary golfers, Gary Player and Arnold Palmer. “Family Outdoor Journal” has been popular with both anglers and campers.

Since the 1990s, John supported diverse programs, such as the Wolf-Moose study on Isle Royale National Park, Fish America Foundation, Copper Country Bird Club, Seney Wildlife Refuge, and the Michigan Nature Association. John often donated fishing equipment for young boys and girls at Free Fishing Weekend events and supported the First Tee golf programs for kids from low-income families. He also supported the U.S. Postal Service by sending many cards to relatives and friends.

John is survived by his daughters, Mary Kay “Katie” and Jeanne Heidtke; his sister, Christine and brother-in-law, Cameron Clark and their family; sister-in-law, Rita Gilmer and her family; and several other close relatives.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2024 in Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m.

The family would prefer memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To send condolences, visit karrersimpson.com