Jerold Clarence Heiken

Jerold Clarence Heiken “Jerry” passed away peacefully at South Lake Hospital in Clermont, Florida, on March 26, 2025. Born on May 20, 1933, in Audubon, Iowa, he was the oldest of six children of Clarence and Katherine Heiken. Jerry was a man of intelligence, thoughtfulness, and humility. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Jerry graduated from Audubon High School in 1951 and enlisted in the Air Force. He was honorably discharged from the military and enrolled in college at Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa), graduating in 1958. His first teaching job was in Callender, Iowa, where he taught Industrial Arts and Driver's Ed. After teaching for several years, Jerry began his career in the Industrial Safety field, working for various insurance companies as well as major trucking firms, where he served as vice president of loss control. In 1971, he was named head of the Institute of Public Safety, which was established in the College of Continuing Education at The Pennsylvania State University.

Family was the cornerstone of Jerry’s life. He lost his wife of 69 years and the love of his life, Nadine Clemmenson in June, 2024. He is survived by his three sons Ron, Russ and Jeff and his daughter Laurie as well as his daughters in-law Jodie, Diane, and Sondra and son in law Ed Krause. He was a devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters and many nieces and nephews. Each family member was touched by his guidance and unwavering support, creating a family bond that was strong and enduring.

Jerry was a man of many interests finding joy and relaxation in activities that challenged him, especially in his retirement years. He was an amazing woodworker as well as a talented artist. His family has benefited from all of his art projects as they grace all of their homes. He was also a great storyteller and a fun person to be around. He never missed a chance to watch the Nittany Lions play football or the Tampa Bay Rays play baseball.

As we say goodbye to Jerry we celebrate a life well-lived marked by many accomplishments and deep human connections. Jerry’s memory will be treasured by his family and friends. We are all better for having known him.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church in Audubon, IA, with Rev. Sheryl Puderbaugh officiating. Inurnment will take place at Arlington Heights Cemetery in Audubon with military honors. A reception will follow the committal at the Taylor Hill Lodge north of Audubon (1614 US-71, Audubon, IA 50025).

Memorials may be directed to the Heiken Family, to be designated at a later date in memory of Jerry. They may be mailed to the Schmidt Family Funeral Home P.O. Box 201 Audubon, IA 50025.

Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Audubon is handling the arrangements.