James Edward Heffer

Our classmate and friend, Jim Heffer, passed on Sunday, May 12, 2013 after bravely battling Stage 4 Lung Cancer (with its many complications) for almost a year after the initial diagnosis. The way in which Jim and his wonderful wife, Sue, lived their lives after that diagnosis was, absolutely, inspirational. We are very happy to say that the quality of Jim's life during his final year was far superior to what any of the "experts" predicted. Jim died in his Florida home with Sue at his side.

After separating from the Air Force in 1972, Jim eventually built a very successful distribution business in the Philadelphia area. Wanting to devote more time to his twin passions of golf and travel, Jim sold his business in 2007 and he and Sue took full advantage of their freedom to “see the USA.” Anything Jim undertook was done with great zeal and vigor; he took Sue on quite a ride those final six years!

Jim was loyal to a fault, he took great pleasure in the “back and forth” banter on the golf course with his daughter, Kelly, and with his many golf buddies and, most of all, Jim deeply loved Sue. Sue returned that love in full measure, evidenced especially by the way in which she totally immersed herself in helping Jim manage his condition during his final year.

Jim leaves behind two children, Kelly and Clint, one grandson, C. J., his beloved Sue and a host of people who are proud to call him a friend. We are missing him already!

A memorial service was held on 19 May at 1400 hrs. at the Hooper Funeral Home; 5054 N Lecanto Hwy; Beverly Hills, FL 34465.

Funeral services for Mr. James E. Heffer, CS-27 class of 1968, who passed away on 12 May 2013 in Florida, will be held on 11 June 2013 at 1000 hrs at the USAFA Cadet Protestant Chapel. Graveside service will immediately follow at the USAFA Cemetery. In the event of inclement weather the graveside service will move to the Memorial Pavilion.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in honor of Jim to:

Citrus County Audubon Society PO Box 527 Lecanto, FL 34460

Please click here to sign the tribute book.

(Pat McBride and Gary Hebenstreit, Class of 1968)

Obituary for Jim Heffer

James Edward Heffer, 66, of Hernando, FL passed away on May 12, 2013, under the care of his loving wife, Susan, and Hospice of Citrus County. Jim was born December 7, 1946 in Rochester, NY to the late Donald and June (Graffrath) Heffer. He graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1968 and served honorably in the Air Force for 4 years. While serving he obtained both an MBA and Law Degree from the University of Denver. After separating from the Air Force in 1972, Jim went to work for Birko Corporation. Thereafter he built a very successful chemical distribution business in the Philadelphia area, selling his company, ESCA Industries, in 2007. Jim was an avid golfer and made 4 holes-in-one during his golfing career. He also was an active member of the Citrus County Audubon Society. Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife Susan (Albertson) Heffer; son Clinton Heffer of Conifer, CO; daughter Kelly Green of Denver, CO; grandson Clinton Heffer, Jr. of Conifer, CO and sister Donna Zirbel of Yarmouth Port, MA. Jim fought a long hard battle with cancer and will be missed by all.