James Gregory Heckman

James Gregory Heckman, age 78, of Unionville, passed away on November 3, 2025, at Covenant Healthcare Harrison. He was born on May 6, 1947, to the late Melvin and Dorothy (Kain) Heckman.

Jim graduated from Gagetown High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Michigan State University. He devoted forty years to his career, twenty years with Easlick Construction and another twenty with GEM Installation, before enjoying a well-earned retirement. On May 1, 1971, Jim married the love of his life, Carolyn Sue Bell, with whom he shared more than five decades of love, laughter, and devotion.

A man of faith, Jim was a longtime member of Colling Church of the Nazarene before joining Ellington Church of the Nazarene. A proud Spartan through and through, he rarely missed a Michigan State football or basketball game. Sports were a lifelong passion, whether watching, playing, or coaching. Jim coached all three of his sons in pony and little leagues, played in summer softball leagues, and on the church basketball team.

Beyond sports, Jim loved spending time outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, pheasant hunting, and never turned down a good game of ping pong. One of his greatest accomplishments was building his own family home, a true labor of love. He also tended a large, beautiful garden that he carefully harvested and canned each season.

Jim had a passion for helping others and was always doing things for people out of the kindness of his heart while never expecting anything in return. Family meant everything to him, especially his grandchildren. He cherished every moment spent with them. Whether playing games like darts or proudly attending every event he could, Jim was always their greatest supporter. His grandchildren were the joy of his life, and they will forever cherish his love and presence.

Jim’s kindness, humor, and hardworking spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He will be remembered as a father and grandfather who gave endlessly, a husband who loved deeply, and a friend whose loyalty and kindness touched every life he knew.

Jim leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of fifty-four years, Sue; three sons, William Heckman, Brad & Tina Heckman, and Brian & Heather Heckman; grandchildren, Kyle, Kevin, Allison, Alanna, Avery, and Oliver; sister-in-law, Carol Smith; and several favorite nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his siblings, Ronald Heckman and Judy Heckman; grandson, Caleb.

Jim’s funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at the Ellington Church of the Nazarene, 2545 Lazelle Road, Caro, MI 48723. Rev. David Boulton will officiate with the burial following at Columbia Township Cemetery in Unionville, Michigan. The family will be present to receive visitors on Friday, November 7, 2025 at Ellington Church of the Nazarene from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. THE FAMILY HAS REQUESTED NO FLOWERS, PLEASE, AS A FAMILY MEMBER IS ALLERGIC. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Ellington Church of the Nazarene.