Lee Grant Heinzelman

Lee Heinzelman passed away in his home where he resided for the past 48 years on May 2, 2024, with his loving wife of 50 years, Nila, by his side. He was a remarkable man, whose life was a testament to his unwavering faith in the Lord. A loving husband, a devoted father, the best grandpa, and a hardworking provider, and he never stopped until the job was finished. His ingenuity is something that will always be remembered, and he embodied strength and kindness in every aspect of his life. Dad found joy in simple pleasures, whether it was tending to his garden, woodworking, exploring the great outdoors through camping, or hitting the trails for some ATV adventures. He would often stop to clean up trash and/or improve a trail. He was a jokester and had a great sense of humor and enjoyed church on Sunday morning with his family.

Lee’s granddaughter was always by his side, and the two of them were inseparable from the time she was born. They enjoyed cooking together and sampling any kind of dough before it was baked. She gave him the nickname “B-Bop”, and she adopted his case of “tinkeritis”. If something needed fixed or improving, he would figure out how to fix it. She would often fall asleep while out ATVing with her B-Bop, and to this day swears he also fell asleep which caused them to crash into a tree. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of love and faith will forever be cherished.

Lee was born February 24, 1944, in Beaver Damn, Wisconsin, the son of Grant and Doris Heinzelman. He was the oldest of four brothers, and graduated from Wisconsin Dells High School in 1962. He served in the United States Air Force as an aircraft mechanic and was honorably discharged in 1969. He received an associate of applied science degree in drafting from the College of Southern Idaho in 1970. He was married June 21, 1973. He was a mechanic at Twin Falls Truck and Equipment and also a mechanic at the Sugar Factory. Lee was a member of Amazing Grace Fellowship and a member of the Magic Valley ATV club.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Doris and Grant Heinzelman.

He is survived by his wife, Nila; brothers, Curt Heinzelman, Wisconsin, Rob (Jane) Heinzelman, South Carolina, and Dave (Sharon) Heinzelman, Wisconsin; sons, Rick (Sandy) Heinzelman, Travis (Tina) Turner, and Thomas Heinzelman; daughter, Aubrey (Jeremiah) Shaddy; grandchildren, Jordan, Ashley, Tyler, Jacob, and Haylen.

Please feel free to make a Memorial Donation of your choice in Lee’s name.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm, Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Snake River National Cemetery,1585 East 4150 North, Buhl. Military Honors will be provided by active duty Air Force the VFW Post 3001.

There will be a potluck following at the Heinzelman residence. If you can (but not necessary) bring your favorite dish. Regardless please come to celebrate Lee’s life.