James A. Heckert, age 83, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Sheboygan Progressive Health Services. He is leaving behind a legacy of hard work and devotion to his family. He was born in Sheboygan on May 2, 1942, to the late Ray and Christine Chodak Heckert.
James was a man of character who spent his professional years as a dedicated employee at Plastic Engineering. On November of 1961, James married the love of his life, Barbara Pappas. Together, they shared over six decades of marriage, building a foundation of love that extended through three generations.
James is survived by his wife, Barbara; his son, Todd; four grandchildren, Brianna Heckert, Alexis (Luke) Van Ess, Brad Heckert, and Tyler (Bee) Heckert; and two step-grandchildren, Ryan Lorbecki and Sam Hayon. He was the proud great-grandfather of Audrey, Annie, and Zander Heckert, Lennon, Booker, and Calder Van Ess, and Charles Lorbecki. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Scott Heckert; his daughter-in-law, Bonnie Heckert; and his parents-in-law, Frank and Arlene Pappas. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In accordance with the family’s wishes a cremation will take place and a private service will take place at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Chapel of Eternal Light.
The Reinbold-Novak Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.reinboldfh.com
My deepest sympathy to Barb and the family Mike Behnke Gusto