Steward J. Heikens

Steward J. Heikens, 63, of Holland, passed away on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at his home in Holland. A funeral service was held on Saturday, February 4, 2012, 10:30 AM at the Colfax Center Presbyterian Church in Holland with Pastor Larry Hoop officiating. Burial followed funeral services at the Holland Cemetery. A visitation was held on Friday, February 3, 2012 from 4 to 7 PM at Engelkes-Abels Funeral Home in Grundy Center. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.abelsfuneralhomes.com.

Steward was born on August 19, 1948 in Eldora, Iowa, the son of Julius H. & Rosa Mae (Heronimus) Heikens. He was raised in Holland where he attended grade school, later graduating from Grundy Center High School. Steward served his country in the Army Reserves from 1966 until 1972, when he was honorably discharged. On September 12, 1970, Steward was united in marriage to Renee S. Berry. The couple made their home in Holland and welcomed two daughters into their family. Steward, “8 Ball” was a self-employed truck driver for 35 years. He then worked for Central Iowa Water from 2005 until his retirement in July 2011. Steward was also co-owner of Yellow Jacket Enterprises, LLC, manufacturing body shop equipment.

He did all of his own mechanic work on trucks and trailers. He was also very skilled in electrical, plumbing, construction work, body shop equipment and welding. Steward volunteered for the Holland Fire Department for 25 years, was a current Holland City Council Member.

He had a love for horses in raising, breeding and riding, in which he did for over 60 years and had a love for dogs and cats. Most importantly, he had a love for his family. He had started his own “Grandpa’s Daycare,” in which he would take the kids to the school bus every morning and keep them after-school and he would also take care of his grandkids’ dogs during the day. He had a great memory and wanted to help others. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife Renee of Holland; daughters Susan (Jim) Beck and Tammy (Brandon) Lehr all of Holland; grandchildren Megan Rose & Emma Renee Beck and Jordan Christopher and Cole Eugene Lehr. Steward was preceded in death by his parents Julius & Rosa Mae Heikens.