Gerald William Heckman

The man, the myth, the legend, Gerald William Heckman, 74, passed away Wednesday, October 12, 2022 at his residence in Shippensburg. He was born February 14, 1948 in Shippensburg, to the late George Wesley Heckman and Kathryn Pearl Railing.

Gerald graduated in the Class of 1966 from Shippensburg High School. He took pride in the time he served in the U.S. Army where he served as a Sergeant. He received the National Defense Service Medal, The Army of Occupational Medal (Berlin), Marksmanship Medal for Sharpshooter (rifle) and Good Conduct Medal.

Gerald is survived by his son, Glenn (Shelly) Heckman; daughter, Janell (Wayne) Miller; brother, Garnet Heckman; three sisters, Twyla Perry, Wanda Heckman and Geraldine McNew and seven grandchildren, Hunter, Autumn and Thaddeus Heckman, Kylee, Paige, Corrine and Athan Miller. In addition to his parents, Gerald is preceded in death by his three brothers, Gordon, George and Galen and sister, Chloe McKenrick.

Gerald, also known as “Lucky”, “Big daddy” and “Jerry”, had a larger-than-life personality and stubbornness. He always had a good comeback and was highly educated on history facts and events.

Gerald’s beer drinking capacity was legendary but as he said "It was only 12 ounces.". He was a master cook and loved to give away his famous jalapeño poppers and stuffed sausage balls. He loved The Dodgers, watching western movies, listening to country music and singing. He enjoyed Blackberry Brandy or as he called it, "The Goddess of Gods", making his own wine, playing blitz, poker, cornhole, can jam, hanging out in his shed and free beer.

Gerald took extreme pride in his children and grandchildren. He was also very fond of the good times, good drinks and amazing friends he considered family at the American Legion Post 223, Durff-Kuhn VFW Post 6168 and the Minnequa Social Club.

Gerald will be deeply and forever missed but we know he is finally reunited with his furry friend, Dakota, hunting with his brother, George and hanging out and fighting with his buddy, Chuck.

Professional services are entrusted to Dugan Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., Shippensburg. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, October 23, 2022 at 3:00 PM at the American Legion Post 223, 100 Dykeman Rd, Shippensburg, PA 17257. Burial at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery will be announced at a later date.

In the meantime, the Heckman family asks for Gerald’s family and friends to raise a cold Natural Light beer and drink it in his honor.