David Heyn, 60, of De Pere, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning after a long and courageous battle with many medical complications.
The youngest son of Melvin and Dorothy (Barth) Heyn, Dave was born November 1956 and raised in the Town of Morrison with his six other siblings. He was a teammate of the 1974 Redbird Championship football team and a graduate of De Pere High School. Dave worked at Green Bay Builders Supply as a truck driver and warehouse manager for over 25 years. In October 1982 he married Julie (Kralovec), and they built their lives in De Pere.
He filled his spare time with savoring the outdoors via motorcycle, snowmobile and ATV, inventing new meals or perfecting his 50 gallon Booyah recipe. Game days were devoted entirely to the Green Bay Packers and for many years he enjoyed watching them from Sect 4, Row 40, seats 25 and 26. His stories were famous, and a favorite form of entertainment around the bonfire. In his later years, he transitioned from hunter to ‘wildlife watcher’ in his park like backyard. He overcame many seemingly insurmountable odds, inspired by some famous words of his favorite coach: ‘We could accomplish many more things if we did not think them impossible.’- Vince Lombardi
Dave regretfully leaves behind his wife Julie of 34 years and two children- Michelle (Hatch), son-in-law Michael Hatch, son Jared Heyn with his significant other Kristen Dombek. Also 2 granddaughters- Leora and Shaelyn Hatch, who filled his life with much needed joy, comfort and distraction. He is also survived by all of his siblings: Elder brother John (Karen) Heyn, and sisters Judy (Virgil) Kalies, Joanne Thomas, Janice (Ralph) Geurts, Jeri (Leon) Lawrenz, and Susan (Robert) Zeamer. He is proceeded in death by both of his parents, Melvin and Dorothy, and also a Step Mother, Emily Heyn.
Family and friends may visit at COTTER FUNERAL HOME 860 N. Webster Avenue, De Pere, on TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, from 2:00pm until the time of service at 5:00pm with Pastoral Minister Steve Donovan officiating. Burial in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, De Pere. Online condolences at www.cotterfuneralhome.com
The family would like to extend a special Thank You to all of the ICU and 4th floor medical staff at Bellin Hospital for all of their compassion and support through his difficult times. Dave’s family is also exceptionally grateful to all of the family and friends who visited and supported him during his many hospitalizations.