Born April 11, 1927, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Albert L. and Leona B. (Rettig) Heitzinger.

On May 27, 1950, he married Frances H. (Orinko) Heitzinger, who survives.

He was a 1944 graduate of Bradford High School. On April 10, 1945 he enlisted in the United States Navy, served during WW II, received the American Theater and Victory Medals and was honorably discharged in July, 1946.

After returning home, he worked at Rettig's Paint Store and then later worked as a letter carrier for the US Postal Service, retiring in 1985.

He attended St. Bernard Church.

He was a member of the American Legion, serving as Commander of the Bradford Post from 1956-57. He loved spending time with his family and also working in his flower and vegetable gardens. 

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Kathy (the late Larry) Vanerstrom of Ft. Myers, FL, Kristine (Robert) Pollock of Clearwater, FL and Karen Heitzinger of Salamanca, NY; two sons, Kenneth (the late Beth) Heitzinger of Bradford and Keith Heitzinger of  Grass Valley, CA; nine grandchildren, Ryan Markefka, Erik (Julie) Marhefka, Kerry Marhefka, Kelly (Tyson) Swain, Katie Heitzinger, Jonathan Pollock, Amanda Pollock, Brooke Heitzinger and Troy Heitzinger; one great grandchild; two sisters, Harriet Clark of Port Charlotte, FL and Sandra Dejesus of Van Nuys, CA a brother Robert L. Heitzinger of McLoud, OK and several cousins, nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Kirk Heitzinger who died September 29, 1974, and a grandson Andrew S. Marhefka who died on September 25, 2002.

A memorial service will be held at a later date and time to be announced. Burial will be in Willow Dale Cemetery.

Memorials, if desired, can be made to McKean County C.A.R.E. for Children.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.

On line condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com