Richard Wesley Heck, III

Richard Wesley Heck III, 80, passed away August 3, 2021 at his home. He was born on February 23, 1941 to Frances and Richard W. Heck, Jr in Des Moines, IA.

Rick graduated from East High School Class of 1959; from William Penn College in 1964 with his Bachelor’s degree; and later from the University of Nebraska in 1979 with his Master’s. He devoted his career to education and worked as a principal, teacher and coach in Iowa and Nebraska. After leaving education, Rick enjoyed creating wooden sailboats and lighthouses. He was passionate about sailing on his boat, Acabar, at Lake Red Rock.

He will be greatly missed by his wife, Marsha Watkins Heck; his son, Gregory Heck; his brother, Stephen (Linda) Heck; niece, Frankie; grandniece, Emma; his family of in-laws including Mark (Mary) Watkins and their children, Lindsey, Kelsea, and Hunter (Katie) Watkins; and a niece, Gina Watkins; and, his very best friend, Tom Sheppard.

The words of Maya Angelou capture the life-philosophy of Rick Heck, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Pearson Park Shelter, 1256 19th Street in West Des Moines, IA. The family welcomes stories, memories and photos to share during our casual gathering to honor the life of Rick Heck.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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