Passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side, at Illinois Veteran's Home at Manteno, Wednesday, April 4, 2018. Age 93 years. Survived by his son William (Joann) Heidel, two daughters Carolyn (dec. Ken) LaPaso, Cindy (Clay) Melhorn, sister-in-law Mary Heidel, 6 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and two nieces and one nephew in Alaska. Preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Clara Heidel, brothers George and Roy Heidel and his son-in-law Kenneth LaPaso. Proudly serving as a Merchant Marine in World War II., 1943-1945. John was a longtime member of the Painters Local #33, retiring from Joliet Township High School Central Campus. He was a longtime member of the Illinois Sheriff's Association and Deer Creek Recreation Club. John enjoyed spending many years as a Little League Coach at Belmont A.C. John was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved spending time with his family. He was a very giving man and always there for everyone especially his family. Christmas was John's favorite holiday and for his family it will never be quite the same. John lived his life his way.