John Leonard Heichelbech, age 62, of Plymouth, died Saturday, May 9, 2026, at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus following an unexpected illness.
Born July 24, 1963, in Crestline, John was the son of the late Harold Anthony and Mary Louise (Vogt) Heichelbech. John attended Shelby High School and soon thereafter began working at Shelby Country Club for 5 years before spending 15 years at General Motors in Ontario. For the last 26 years, John was employed by Shelby Oakland Cemetery as a caretaker, from where he retired in 2025.
John was a simple man who enjoyed simple pleasures, especially fishing and vegetable gardening.
John is survived by his brothers: Mike Heichelbech, Jim Heichelbech, Joe (Julie) Heichelbech, and Dan Heichelbech; his aunt, Marilyn Vogt; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his sister: Joann Heichelbech; nephews: Derrick Heichelbech and Blake Heichelbech; and sister-in-law: Debbie Heichelbech.
Graveside services and burial will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery in Shelby with Deacon Steve Vogt officiating.
Care for John and his family is being provided by Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences may be left on their website at penwellfuneralhome.com or on their Facebook page.
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com