William Joseph Heft

Bill was born in Kansas City, MO to Ralph and Frances (Billow) Heft on January 10, 1933. He graduated from Visitation Grade School, Rockhurst High School and Rockhurst College. He was drafted into the Korean War right out of college. He went to Camp Gordon GA for High Speed Radio Operator training, and used those skills in the US Army as a radio operator in Germany. After Germany he was stationed in Ft. Riley, Kansas, 1st Infantry - Big Red 1. He was employed by Macy's for many years. He then went to work for Montgomery Wards and retired from there after 25 years. He was a volunteer at St Joseph Health Center and was also active in the Laubach Literacy Group. Bill was a Leader in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, Pack 150 at St. Elizabeth, and a Father figure to many boys and girls in the 'Walnut Street Gang'. He was known for the catch phrase "If you touch it, catch it!" which he yelled many times. He was an avid reader and a big fan of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs.

He was preceded in death by his wife Helen 'Ginger' (Hodes) Heft in 2017, after more than 60 years of marriage, along with 2 sisters Helen (Leo) Rieke and Margaret Heft. He leaves behind 2 daughters: Cathy Cashen (Charley) and Barbara Hedgpeth (Steve) and 3 sons Bill (Lan), Mike (Stephanie) and Tim (Sonie).

He is survived by 10 Grandchildren, Adam, Monica, Becky, Lindsey, Stephanie, Jenny, Abby, Karli, Paul and Kelly and 12 Great Grandchildren and a multitude of nieces, nephews and friends.

He was a devout Catholic and member of several Catholic communities in Kansas City. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO on Sunday March 24, 2024, where the Rosary will be prayed at 4:45 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 11822 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO at 10:00 am on Monday, March 25, 2024 with a small family Eulogy starting at 9:50 am. Burial immediately following at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation to St. Thomas More Parish. We are grateful for their assistance during this planning process. REQUIESCAT IN PACE