Lowell Heckman

Lowell Heckman, 89, died Wednesday, November 30, 2011 in Pampa.

Services were held at 10a.m. Saturday, December 3, 2011, at Carmichael-Whatley Colonial Chapel, with Marilynn Frye and Rachel Potter, officiating. Burial followed at Fairview Cemetery with military honors courtesy U. S. Army, Fort Hood, Texas. Arrangements were under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors.

Mr. Heckman was born May 3, 1922, in Antelope Flat, on the southeastern edge of the Palo Duro Canyon, to George and Annie Mae Heckman. His family moved to Clarendon in 1929 where Lowell lived during his school years. Lowell worked for the J. A. Ranch in Clarendon and Palo Duro, as did his grandfather and father, and his family was befriended by Charles Goodnight during their time on this ranch.

He was a decorated veteran of WWII for his service with the U. S. Army 104th Timberwolf Division, which participated in the Battle of the Bulge campaign. After the service, Lowell married the love of his life, Cora Lee Muse, and graduated from Texas Tech University. During his career in the petroleum industry, he and Cora Lee moved to Pampa in 1968 where they raised their four children.

Lowell was an example of a life well lived. His family and friends will forever be inspired by his devotion to family, tireless work ethic, immeasurable patience, easy manner and a wonderful sense of humor.

Lowell was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Ray Heckman and Cecil Heckman; one sister: Leola Gilmore; and their oldest son: Richard Heckman.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years: Cora Lee Heckman of the home; two daughters: Cheri Rutledge and husband Bob of Grapevine, and Teresa Heckman of Pampa; a son: Rodney Heckman and wife Cathy of Sachse; four grandsons: Josh Shelton and wife Alexis of Pampa, Kylar Rutledge and wife April of Saginaw, Hal Rutledge and wife Kelli of North Richland Hills, and Riley Heckman of Sachse; four great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter.

The family suggests memorials be made to Disabled American Veterans National Headquarters, 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY 41076.