Eric Paul Heinz

Eric Paul Heinz, 57, of Grawn, Michigan said goodbye to his beloved family on September 10, 2023 after a quick and hard fought battle with ALS. Eric was known for being a four wheeling, Tattooing, snowmobiling, ice diving, mountain climbing, bear wrestling, Jeeping, horror movie-making bad ass. Born on January 10, 1966, in Mount Clemens, Michigan, Eric was the beloved son of Richard Heinz and the late Myrna Heinz. His family was the sunshine of his life. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Joanna and their three children: Myka, Quinn, and Bodie. Eric had 7 cherished siblings: Richard (Patti) Heinz, Wendie (Duane) Eickenroth, the late Randy (Jenny) Heinz (Dar Gauthier), Michael (Shelley) Heinz, Orla (Jim) Frost, Cara (Doug) Fries, and Corey (Erin) Heinz and his father Richard, along with a multitude of dear nieces and nephews. Eric could do anything and if he didn't know how to do it, he would learn. He was fearless at attempting and trying new things. He was brilliant in fixing or creating the impossible. He built his own house, his own sawmill, taught himself how to tattoo and play the guitar, water skied down the Amazon, wrestled a bear, raised three great kids and loved his wife- the absolute love of his life-more than anything in this world. He loved the color yellow, spending time with his family, guys trips to the UP, making movies, taking risks, good beer and good friends. He was a devoted Detroit Lions fan. He was always there to lend a hand, give a hug or make you laugh. Eric was a deeply spiritual man. His faith was uncomplicated. When asked what his religious preference would be, he simply replied "Jesus." There is no doubt that he is free, dancing, and telling the best stories up in heaven and that we will have one amazing reunion one day. We all know how lucky we are to have known Eric. We are so lucky! There are 7.8 billion people on the planet, but without his sweet soul, the world feels emptier, we think it always will. For his family, Eric was the architect; designing and building a world of happiness, love, and everlasting hope. His memory will forever be etched in our hearts and his legacy — that of loving truly and living fearlessly— will be the blueprint for the rest of us to live by. We are gonna try. Visitation for friends and family will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023 from 5 to 7 pm at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. The celebration of his life will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023 at 10:30 am, also at the funeral home with visitation beginning at 9:30. Graveside services will follow at Inland Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Susan Mast ALS Foundation. https://www.susanmastals.org/

Eric Paul Heinz

January 10, 1966 - September 10, 2023