William Paul “Billy” Heckler, age 87, of Shawano, WI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, veteran, and friend – Billy lived a full and meaningful life rooted in service, love, and community. Billy was born on October 15, 1937, in Iron Mountain, Michigan, a son of the late William and Loretta (Hischke) Heckler. Billy was raised in Kingsford where he grew up with strong Midwestern values that would shape his life. In 1959, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army and was deployed to Korea, serving his country with honor until his discharge on April 3, 1962. Shortly after returning home, Billy married the love of his life, the former Marlene Ann Lillie, on May 5, 1962, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Iron Mountain. Their union marked the beginning of a marriage that would span more than six decades. Billy pursued higher education at Northern Michigan University, earning a degree in secondary education with an emphasis in business. His passion for teaching and mentoring led him to a long and impactful career at Shawano Community High School, where he taught business for over 25 years, leaving a lasting impression on countless students. After retiring from teaching, Billy stayed active in the Shawano community, working a variety of odd jobs – from the Menominee Casino to the local job center – always staying connected and engaged. He was a good and faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano.
A true sports enthusiast, Billy was a lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers, but no team ever held his heart the way his grandsons’ teams did. Whether it was football, hockey, or baseball, Billy was always on the sidelines, cheering the loudest and beaming with pride. His unwavering support and love for Matthew Carlson and Joshue Carlson were constants in their lives. More recently, Billy found immeasurable joy in his role as a great-grandfather to Hattie Lou Carlson, who brought a new light into his life and whom he adored with all his heart.
Survivors include his wife, Marlene; his daughter, Diane (Dan) Hietpas; his son, Jimmy (Heather) Heckler; grandsons, Matthew (Aly Dallas) Carlson and Joshua (Caroline Ogden) Carlson; and his precious great-granddaughter, Hattie Lou Carlson. He is further survived by four step-grandchildren, two step great granddaughters, four nieces, three nephews, several cousins, and brother-in-law Donald Rowell. Billy was preceded in death his beloved sister, Mary Rowell; brothers-in-law, Louis (Jean) Lillie and Donald (Dorothy) Lillie; and two nieces. Billy’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched – through his teaching, his kindness, and the love he poured into his family. Billy’s quick wit and sense of humor was second to none. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
A Funeral Mass for Billy will be celebrated on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano. Father Edward Looney will be the Celebrant. Visitation will begin at the church on Saturday at 10:00 am and continue until the time of Mass. Shawano VFW Post #2723 will conduct military honors at the church.
Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc. of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com.
“The family would like to thank Moments Hospice and the staff at The Cottages for their care during these last few months.
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