Obituary: Robert "Rocky" R. Heckmann died Oct. 27, 2024.

Robert “Rocky” R. Heckmann, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, at the age of 71. Rocky had a larger-than-life personality and had an uncanny way to make every moment memorable. He loved to make everyone laugh and smile and was known to share a dad joke or two. He handed out Lifesavers® mints wherever he went, and many in the community knew him as the “mint man.”

Rocky was born on June 24, 1953, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Frank and Regina Heckmann. He married the love of his life, Janet, in 1973, and together they built a warm and loving home that was a place of joy and acceptance to all. He was a devoted father to two children, Christie and Matthew, and a loving grandfather to Rose.

Rocky enjoyed listening to music, especially from the Big Band era, cars, shopping, traveling and being outdoors. He was a collector of M&M’s® memorabilia and enjoyed showing his collection to anyone who came to visit.

Rocky is survived by his devoted wife, Janet; his children, Christie Kurtz (Matt) and Matthew Heckmann (Sara Farell); his cherished granddaughter, Rose Kearney (Sam); brother, Francis Heckmann; and sisters, Patricia Crowley, Barbara Kolas, Anna Lynch and Regina Bruner.

He was preceded in death by his parents and the late Margaretta Rocco, Eugene Heckmann, Mary Guckes, Judith Heckmann and Ceilia Anderson. He also leaves behind many extended family and members of our Winter Garden community.

Rocky leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and adventure that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life for Rocky will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, with a service beginning at about 6 p.m. at Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home in Winter Garden.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Polka Dogz Pet Rescue at bit.ly/3C193MM.