Olean – John Jacob Heinz, Sr. "Loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather"
John J. Heinz, Sr., went home to his Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 7, 2021, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
John was born on January 12, 1930 in Olean and was the son of the late Jacob R. and Gladys Lucille Page Heinz. On August 10, 1952, in Olean, he married his wife, friend, and partner in life for 68 years, Kathryn Roberta "Bertie" Heinz, who survives.
John was a US Army veteran. He joined after leaving school in 1948 and served in the Korean War, before returning to the Olean area in 1951. John began working at Icky's Cookies of Olean and then began a 42 year career in the wholesale cookie business. He was the owner of his own business for the majority of his career, and was affectionately known as "The Cookie Man" to all who knew him. John was a life-long member of the Immanuel Luther Church in Olean, where he served as elder, usher, and repairer of everything. He was also a life-member of the Olean Rod and Gun Club.
John loved to hunt, especially ruffed grouse with Mike and Jilly his first of many Brittany Spaniels, fish, and all things outdoors and hands-on. He loved skeet shooting and traveled throughout New York and Pennsylvania shooting competitively. John also loved camping and fishing at Onoville Marina, where many knew him by his yellow fishing boat. John loved and is loved by his Lord, family, and all who knew him.
Along with his loving wife, Bertie, John is survived by; 3 sons, John (Desiree nee Kufeldt) Heinz of Reading, PA, Kirk (Marcia nee Lincoln) Heinz of Newtown, PA, and Craig (Theresa nee Emerson) Heinz of Cuba; 5 grandchildren, Jared (Ann) Heinz, Jacob (Tara) Heinz, Emily Heinz, Chelsea Heinz, and Caitlyn Heinz; and a loving sister, Dorothy.
John was predeceased by a sister Laura, and many brothers and sisters-in-law.
Friends will be received at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 419 Laurens St., Olean, on Saturday, March 13, 2021 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, at which time a Memorial Service will be held, with military honors accorded by the Allegany American Legion Charles Harbel Post #892. The Rev. Dr. Derek J. Cheek, Pastor, will officiate.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 East State Street, Olean. Online condolences may be made at www.LetroMcIntoshSpinkFuneralHome.com.
Memorials if desired, can be made to the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 419 Laurens Street, Olean, New York 14760.