David Heinaman

David B Heinaman passed away peacefully after a long illness in the presence of his family on Sunday, August 12, 2018 and is now at rest in the presence of our Lord. David is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Joyce, his brother Robert, and his children Ilsa, Mike and Matt, along with their spouses and six grandchildren. David was a man of strong faith, and it was not only a cornerstone in his life, but something that he shared with all those around him. His faith in Christ transformed him and guided him throughout life, and he was always very aware of Gods grace in all things. He considered the six years since diagnosis a gift from God, and during that time he got to see one son get married and bring a beautiful wife and two new grandchildren into the family, including the first grandson, and he was able to not only meet his new granddaughter from California, but also visit her several times both there and here. He also saw Gods grace when, after more than 40 years of memories at the family house in Schoeneck, he and Joyce were able to move to Luther Acres, which led to many new friends and memories, and opened up a whole new level of care and overwhelming support during the trying illness. Thirty years in public education gave David the opportunity to touch many lives, first as a math teacher, and then as a computer administrator, and it was always a joy for him to see his former students later in life. He had an exceptional work ethic, starting in his early years with landscaping work for close family friends and driving the family beer truck, and continuing after his retirement from the Ephrata School District when he founded his consulting business. For years he regularly woke up at 4:00am to begin working, a feat one of his sons could take comfort from but not surpass even during basic training. David followed these early working hours with long and rewarding walks with Joyce, and the two of them could be seen in rain or shine, hot or cold, and often with one of their beloved dogs tugging on the leash ahead of them. David loved dogs, tolerated cats, and we hope is throwing ball with one of his favorite Dobermans or Boxers in heaven right now. He was a dedicated runner, and also loved traveling with Joyce, and numerous trips to Scotland resulted in more lifelong friends. Closer to home, David loved the beach, and for decades the family made regular trips to Ocean City, NJ. After Davids devastating diagnosis in 2012, he continued to live his life focused on his love for Jesus, his family, and his friends. He went out of his way to make sure that his beloved wife would be well cared for in his absence, and he continued to be joyful and giving. He was always grateful for the stellar care that he received from the doctors, nurses and staff at Fox Chase Cancer Center, and he went out of his way to get to know the wonderful people there, many of whom had a tremendous impact on him. He was also very grateful for the nursing and hospice staff at Luther Acres, and to all of his family and many faithful friends for their love and support. He will be greatly missed, but we take joy that he is with the Lord Jesus, and we look forward with great hope to being with him again.