Submitted by: John C. Monk

John E. Heisler Jr.

Nov. 29, 1923 - Feb. 16, 2010
SOUTH BEND - John E. Heisler Jr., 86, previously a longtime South Bend, IN, resident, died Tuesday morning in Bradenton, Fla., after an illness. Born Nov. 29, 1923, in Sidney, Ohio, Heisler was raised in New Bremen, OH. A New Bremen High School graduate, he served from 1943-46 in the U.S. Army 394th Infantry Regiment, a part of the 99th Infantry Division, and fought in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. He graduated with a bachelor's degree from Miami University (Ohio) in 1949, then received a master's degree in mathematics from the University of Illinois in 1951. Heisler was employed as an engineer and advanced development manager by the Bendix Corporation Aerospace Division in Mishawaka, IN, from 1952 until 1978. Involved in creation of the guidance system for the Talos missile, he was active in the Bendix Management Club. From 1978 until 1987 he worked for the Allied Bendix Division in Towson, MD. While living in South Bend, he and his family were active members of Zion United Church of Christ. He also was active, serving as a deacon, in the Havenwood Presbyterian Church in Timonium, MD, prior to relocating to Florida in 2007. Married June 24, 1951, Heisler was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Elizabeth (Porterfield) Heisler, and sisters, Marieda (Myrt) and Anna (Pat). He is survived by three children, John E. Heisler III (Karen) of Granger, IN, Carol (Joe) Hall of Valencia, CA, and Steven (Cindy) Heisler of St. Petersburg, FL; and three grandchildren, Scott Heisler, Tim Heisler and Christine Walsh. Private cremation arrangements have been made through Brown & Sons Funeral Homes in Bradenton, FL. Condolences may be sent to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Published in South Bend Tribune on February 18, 2010