Casper LeRoy Heichelbeck, age 88 of rural Pocahontas, IL, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully with Tamie by his side on Sunday evening, June 16, 2024 at Breese Nursing and Rehab in Breese, IL.
He was born on February 10, 1936 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland, IL, the son of Walter J. and Stella I. (Casper) Heichelbeck.
Casper was a life-long member of the Highland Evangelical United Church of Christ where he was baptized and confirmed, as well as, served as Head Usher for 24 years and was a part of the Ushering Team for an additional 32 years until September 2012 when he retired. He helped start the Radio Ministry at the church in 1962 and served as an announcer and sound technician since October 1975. He served on the Consistory for six years and was also Financial Secretary. He was involved with the Sunday School program for 15 years serving in various capacities (Missionary Chairman, Supt. of Primary Department, Teacher, Vice President and President of the Board of Christian Education). He also assisted with Confirmation for five years. In addition he served on the Property Board and Worship Board, and sang in the Chancel Choir. He and Jan both served as Church Caregivers to those hospitalized, living at Highland Healthcare Center, other nursing home facilities, and some additional shut-ins. He also enjoyed pulling the Church float at Highland, St. Jacob, Greenville and Marine Homecomings/Fairs.
Given their passion for preserving history, Casper and Jan were both active members of the Highland Historical Society. One such act was he and his mother, Stella, were very instrumental in the preservation of the Highland City Cemetery Chapel and saved it from being demolished. He was also very instrumental in collecting historical memorabilia involving the Evangelical Church and its history, assisted in refurbishing the current chapel there and establishing the Church artifacts curio cabinets, as well as serving as the Church Historian. Everyone knew that when the Church doors were open, Casper and Jan would be there.
Casper was a life-long resident of Mills Township where he attended Metcalf School and then Bond County Community Unit #2 public schools in Greenville and graduated from high school in 1953. He also attended Ranken College in St. Louis, Missouri and graduated in 1955 with a degree in electrical engineering. Due to the unexpected death of his father, Walter, in October 1955 he returned to the family farm to assume its operations. He continued to manage and work on the family grain farm where he also raised registered Polled Hereford beef cattle until his retirement in March 1997, and was a member of the American Polled Hereford Association.
Casper and Jan were united in marriage on January 6, 1962 at the Highland Evangelical and Reformed Church. They enjoyed 58 years together and have one daughter, Tamie.
Casper and Jan enjoyed traveling in the United States and Canada. He also enjoyed gardening, keeping an immaculate lawn, and volunteering at his church especially archiving the history of the church, as well as sharing that history with others. Casper was a loving and supportive husband and father, and his faith in Christ was first and foremost.
Survivors include: one daughter, Tamie and many special friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jan, on May 3, 2020; and his parents Walter (October 10, 1955) and Stella (May 13, 1983).
Arrangements are being handled by: Donnell-Wiegand Funeral Home in Greenville.
Service Information:
Visitation will be Saturday, June 22, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Donnell-Wiegand Funeral Home in Greenville.
Visitation prior to the service will be Sunday, June 23, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Highland Evangelical United Church of Christ.
Celebration of Life Service will be Sunday, June 23, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Highland Evangelical United Church of Christ.
Interment will be in the Highland City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers or plants, memorials may be made to:
Evangelical United Church of Christ Radio Ministry
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Evangelical Children’s Home
