Max E. Heinz

November 2, 1946 - January 12, 2021

Max E. Heinz Jr., 74, passed away at 4:42 pm Tuesday January 12, 2021 at Alton Memorial Hospital. He was born on November 2, 1946 in Decatur, IL, the son of Max Heinz Sr and Eileen (Deardorff) Heinz. Max married Janet Thomas on August 17, 1968 in Madison, IL. She survives. Max served the Alton School district for 35 years as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, retiring in 2002. As a teacher, he was awarded the “Environmental Teacher of the Year in Madison County”. He was a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church where he served as an usher and was a Fourth Degree member of the Godfrey Knights of Columbus. He also served many years on the Village of Godfrey Park Board, where he helped to facilitate projects benefitting area youth and the general community. Max’s selflessness touched the lives of so many that knew him. He volunteered his time for countless events and causes. From Friday fish fries at the KC hall, to basketball free-throw contests for kids, to Marquette High School athletic fund-raisers, to week-long canoe trips with the school environmental club, he was there to lead or help. He spent many years coaching, particularly basketball at St. Ambrose and Marquette HS. If you knew Max - even if only briefly - you probably at least smiled and enjoyed a good conversation. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and friend. Max, affectionately known as ‘Butch’ to his parents and siblings, cherished his time with family and friends. He radiated excitement when planning family get-togethers at his home with Janet, especially for the largest of gatherings, bringing everyone together. He loved his time in the outdoors, fishing and duck hunting with his kids, family, and friends. This passion included more than 40 years of visits with his family to the boundary waters in northern Minnesota and Canada. Max’s love for everyone and everything in his life is an inspiration that will live on. In addition to his wife, Janet; Max is also survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Jeffrey & Sue Heinz of Godfrey, Michael & Beth Heinz of Godfrey; a daughter and son-in-law, Ann & Jay Rakers of Godfrey; six grandchildren, Lauren and Rachel Heinz, Grant and Ava Heinz and Helen and Sophia Rakers, one sister and brother-in-law, Sandra & Richard Bogle of Maroa, IL; and one brother and sister-in-law, Jeff & Connie Heinz, of Forsyth, IL; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Pam Thompson. Due to COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions, a private family viewing will be held Sunday January 17, 2021 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey. A life celebration for all to attend is being planned for later in 2021. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 am Monday January 18, 2021 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey, following COVID-19 guidelines and regulations. Inurnment will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Godfrey. Memorials may be made to St. Ambrose School in Godfrey.