Charles W. Heckelman

Charlie Heckelman, 86, of Coventry Township passed away October 19, 2021.  He was born December 22, 1934 in Akron to the late Charles P. and Annabelle Heckelman.  Charlie grew up in the Portage Lakes and attended Coventry High School where he was known as 'Choo Choo Charlie' for his football prowess and earned 14 letters in total.  He worked as Lifeguard at Sandy Beach.

Charlie join the Navy and served on the USS Eaton where and toured 26 countries as well as 21 ports.  After the military, Charlie worked at Goodyear Aerospace for 18 years, Edwin Shaw Rehabilitation Center for 18 years and Orange County Schools 10 years.  He was the first president of the Portage Lakes Active Youth Center (P.L.A.Y. Center).  Charlie was also the owner of Heck’s Fixall Remodeling and Repair.  He loved to remodel his own homes and he even built his home in Florida.

Charlie was always the life of the party and lit up the room when he was there. He loved to tell tales of his youth which were usually greatly embellished but always brought a laugh or smile. He was kind and generous to both his friends and family. He was a big flirt and always knew how to make the women feel pretty. He was a talented carpenter, but his crowning glory was his miniatures. He was a loving; intelligent and talented man and he will be greatly missed. 

“You know when you're in a situation like this it makes you want to go out and buy a big Hershey bar”.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Babe in 2019.  He is survived by his children, Charlie (Mona) Heckelman and Kim Walter; grandchildren, Roger (Michelle) Watson and Joseph Lewis; great grandson, Brady; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Per Charles’ wishes, cremation has taken place and an inurnment with military honors will take place in the Spring.  To leave a special message online for the family, visit our website at www.schermesserfh.com.

SCHERMESSER
(330) 899-9107
www.schermesserfh.com

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