Arthur Wesley “Wes” Heikkinen

Born Dec. 24, 1939, he was preceded into Heaven by beloved wife of 64 years, Anita Celia (Olson), son Peter, parents Axel and Edna Heikkinen, and siblings Norman, Paul (Paulette), Helen Baakko, and Carol.

Wes is survived by children, Cindy, Patrick (Wendy), and Kurt (Doreen); grandchildren, Benjamin (Jennifer), Brianna, Samantha, Megan, and Daniel; his siblings, Lillian Kehus, Bruce (Helen), Jean Lehto, Janet Olson, Linda Wanhala, Diane (Leland) Jurva, and Robert (Jill).

Wes was born in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and grew up in Tapiola. He attended John A. Doelle Agricultural School, and married Anita on Oct. 31, 1959. 

Wes earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Michigan Technological University, and he and family moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for what turned out to be, a 40+ year career in his field.

Wes took considerable pride in his work, which he displayed with his impeccable work ethic. He would often point out projects he worked on as he drove down the interstate.

His Christian faith was important to him and was exhibited in his service to the Lord. He tutored math, led Bible studies, and served on various boards at Good Shepherd’s Lutheran Church/School. He set an example for others, especially his children and grandchildren, on what it meant to be a servant of Christ.

He loved sports and was a basketball player in his youth. Wes carried those memories into his late stages of life, often sharing the story of his game-winning half-court shot. As an adult, he coached his children in hockey, basketball, and baseball. Wes attended most of his grandchildren’s activities, including baseball, hockey, tennis, volleyball, and dance (yes, even dance). Family vacations were spent with family in the U.P. where fishing at the “Bass Hole” was common.

Wes was a member of Living Hope Lutheran Church in West Allis, Wisconsin.

Visitation will be in the Church building on Good Shepherd’s Campus on Saturday, April 19, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. with a funeral service immediately following. Good Shepherd’s Campus, 1337 South 100th Street in West Allis, Wisconsin, 53214.