Robert “Bob” William Heitzman

Robert "Bob" William Heitzman passed away peacefully on February 12, 2023 surrounded by family. Bob was born on April 14, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois to Bernice and Robert Heitzman. Bob led a fulfilling life in his 86 years with a successful career and a love for laughter and adventure with family and friends. Bob attended Austin High School in Chicago and graduated with a B.A. in English from Northwestern University and a passion for journalism and writing. During this time, he served six and a half years part-time in the US Army Reserves. Bob had a long career at Packaging Digest, as the Editor-in-Chief, and then Publisher of this leading trade magazine for the packaging industry. Beyond his respected writing and speeches, his position provided him (and often his wife, Della) to travel to many different countries around the world. During their 63 years of marriage, Bob and Della cherished strong family and friend connections, valued a mutual appreciation of music, and engaged in various community service activities. Their journey together began shortly after high school--with stops in Oak Park and Edison Park--followed by their long-time residence in Park Ridge where they raised their three daughters. They later moved to Fontana, WI, where they enjoyed golfing and spending memorable times in the Lake Geneva area. For the last several years, they resided in Des Plaines.

Bob was the beloved husband of Della (nee Martin) and the loving father of Karen (Dale) Ammentorp, Krista (Wesley) Martel, and their late daughter, Ellen Heitzman. He was a dear grandfather to Matthew (Christina), Kristin (Mev), and Danielle Ammentorp, and Simone and Chance Martel. He was the fond brother of Don (Sue) Heitzman, and the loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place Friday, Feb. 17, 2023 at the M J Suerth Funeral Home, 6754 N. Northwest Hwy., Chicago from 4-8 pm. Funeral Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 in state at The Edison Park Lutheran Church, 6626 N. Oliphant (at Avondale) from 10:30 am until time of funeral service, 11:00am. Interment Town of Maine Cemetery, Memorials may be made in Bob's memory to the National Alzheimer's Association at: www.alz.org or the charity of your choice. For further information call 773-631-1240 0r www.suerth.com.

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