Robert K. Heitz, 82, of Rushville died at 7:25 a.m. Feb. 27, 2013, at Elms Nursing Home in Macomb.
He was born Oct. 12, 1930, in Schuyler County, a son of Carl and Carrie Simpson Heitz. He married Norma Jean Unger on Nov. 17, 1950, in Rushville. She survives.
Also surviving are one daughter, Kimberly K. Heitz (and Vern McBride) of Rushville; one son, Kevin V. (and Clara J.) Heitz of Jacksonville; one sister, Doris Hightower of Macomb; and three grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Kermit and Albert Heitz.
He was a graduate of Rushville High School.
He first worked as a sales representative for Mickelberry's in Rushville.
He enlisted with Illinois National Guard and was called to duty during the Korean Conflict, where he served in California and Orleans, France.
After his discharge, he earned a bachelors of education and later a masters of administration degrees from Western Illinois University in Macomb. He began his career in education as a science teacher at Rushville Junior High School. He later served as an assistant principal of the kindergarten through eighth grades with Schuyler School District. He was later principal of the Pre-K through fourth grade at Washington and Webster schools. He retired after 34 years of service to the school district.
He was a member of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville and its Christian Men's Fellowship.
He also was a member of Illinois Education Association, National Education Association, Illinois Principals Association, served as past president of Schuyler-Brown Retired Teachers Association, charter member and past president of Rushville Lions Club and Guthrie-Pierce VFW Lodge #1239 in Beardstown. He served two terms on Schuyler County Board and Chairman of Schuyler County Food Basket. He coached Little League baseball and junior high lightweight basketball. He served for 10 years with Schuyler County Selective Service System.
Services were held Saturday at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville with Reverend John Sowers officiating. Burial was in Rushville City Cemetery. Wood Funeral Home in Rushville was in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Rushville or Rushville Community Chest.
Condolences may be sent to www.woodfh.net.
Current Obituaries in the Astoria South Fulton Argus