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Lonny Heckman Obituary
Lonny L. Heckman, 38 of Northampton passed away Tuesday, November 27, 2007 at home. Born June 15, 1969 in Allentown, he was the son of Leonard Heckman and Linda (Bartholomew) Suranofsky and stepson of Carl Suranofsky with whom he resided. Lonny was a talented aspiring song writer who recently wrote a song that was broadcast on the Howard Stern radio program on Sirrus. The song When I see Beth Smiling was so well received that it was to become a part of the upcoming nuptials between Stern and his fiance Beth. Lonny was to hear his song Thursday evening sung by Tommy Shaw of Shaw/Blades but his life long battle with diabetes took his life before this dream could become reality. Survivors: In addition to his parents he is survived by wife, Cindy L. Keller-Heckman; sisters, Lynnette A. Houser and husband Ronald, Lorelle L. Stofko and husband Kyle; nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends who mourn his loss. He will be sadly missed by his companion animals Sonnet, Kili, and Trinity. Services: Funeral at 11 a.m., Monday, December 3, in the George G. Bensing Funeral Home, Inc., 2165 Community Dr., Route 946 Village of Moorestown-Bath. Interment will follow in Arlington Cemetery, Whitehall. Viewing 6-8 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home. Contributions: In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family c/o the funeral home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lonny Heckman
Sponsored by Admirer of Lonny and Howard Stern Fan.
Linda Suranofsky
June 14, 2025
I am sitting here reading all these beautiful words written for my son. Lonny Heckman. Tomorrow, June 15, 2025, He would have been 56 years old. I want to thank Howard Stern and all the fans, family, friends for the heart-felt words. It will be 18 years on Nov. 27, 2025. I read these words; and know how much Lonny was loved!
August 25, 2018
Listening to an old Stern Show and I'm knocked out by this beautiful song he wrote for them. Rest in peace Lonny. - Tim
Carolann Leindecker
December 6, 2007
Linda and family,
I was saddened by the loss of Lonny. I know there are no words that can ease the pain in your heart that you feel now. I too, lost my son John at the age of 42 on November 18, 2007. My prayers go out to you, Linda, and all your family. May the memories of the love you shared comfort you in the days to come. I find peace in that my son is no longer in pain. I hope you find that peace knowing that Lonny is with the lord and at peace also. May all your memories bring you joy. God's blessings,
Lloyd
December 5, 2007
People go when we least expect it. When your work is done it's done. No one can stop you!!! Artie Lange had it right Lennon was singing, "When I see Beth Smiling" in Heaven! God bless his memory and his whole family!
Lisa
December 5, 2007
I wish to send my deepest and sincere sympathies to the entire Heckman family. Know that you ALL have been in my prayers daily. I pray that the Lord will give you peace and strength during this difficult time and each day after. I hope Lonny found peace in our Loving Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Mike
December 5, 2007
I listened to the Stern Show but didn't hear about Lonny's death until I read it. I was and still am in shock. He was an example of making the most of what you're given... a universal example. I wish his family condolences and offer this comfort to them: that his story is going to be a motivation for thousands of people to believe in themselves and take up what they've always wanted to do. Can't wait to finish writing that book.
Nellie Kemmerer
December 5, 2007
Hi to All the Hechman family, We were neighbors back on Cherry Hill Road. I alway loved all the children. I was so shocked when I heard about Lonny. I am so sorry and so is my daughter Kathy. We moved to Sinking Spring last year and we do not get the Allentown paper. Sorry I would have come to the viewing. I just heard about it yesterday when I was up to Nazareth. Love, Nellie Kemmerer and family
Maria Stenack
December 3, 2007
Dear Linda and Carl,
I am sorry I was unable to attend the services for Lonny. I will keep you and your family in my prayers and my heart goes out for you Linda. Losing a child has to be the hardest thing for a mother to go through. Have faith in God that Lonny is now in a better place where there is no pain or suffering.
Maria
Ann Marie
December 2, 2007
Dear Lenny, Lorelle, & Family:
I cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am for the loss of your son & brother. Lonny has truly touched the lives of many. If there is anything you need or I can do, please let me know.
Sympathy and Love,
Anne and Family
Susan
December 2, 2007
Lonny's music touched Stern fans everywhere, and I mourn his passing. I only wish Lonny had lived long enough to see Shaw-Blades perform his song live.
My condolences to his family and friends.
Ronald Smith
December 2, 2007
Sorry to learn of your loss, God Bless all of his relatives and friends. I too am a Stern listener as well as a resident of Northampton. His song matched his spirit; that was my impression while listening to his mom speak of him the other day.
Mike
December 2, 2007
I was sad to hear the passing of Lonny from the Howard Stern show. I loved the song... he seemed like a great guy.
Christopher Ott
December 2, 2007
To the family of Lonny Heckman... may you be rest-assured, that each slight breeze you feel is the hand of the new angel (Lonny) gently reminding you that he is with you eternally.
Donna Barto
December 2, 2007
Linda,
When my son heard the news on the Howard Stern show Sunday, he immediately called me! I was stunned. You are in my thoughts and I hope to see you this evening if the weather holds out. Special prayers for your family and Lonnie!
Love,
Donna Barto (and John)
Penny Yoder
December 2, 2007
To the friends and family of Lonny Heckman, I wish to send my sincerest sympathy. Please, if any of you can, take some time to view his Myspace page; you will find many more offers of condolence from all over the country.
Ron
December 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the Heckman family. Having a 22yr old diabetic son with early signs of kidney problems, it pained me to hear about Lonny on the Stern show. I know I'll lose my son to way to early and it hurts. Take care Lonny, you touched me deeply.
Joseph Sokasits
December 2, 2007
Mrs. Pearson paired me with Lonny for projects in our Introductory German class in 8th grade. I remember that he began missing classes often during high school, to the point of being hospitalized at the beginning of our senior year. He did not discuss his health problems in school. He just kept working along with the rest of us, staying upbeat and funny. I was pleasantly surprised to hear about him and his song on Sirius, only to be deeply shocked and saddened by his sudden passing. He was a thoroughly decent person with a great sense of humor. I offer my deepest condolences to his family and friends.
david hallock
December 1, 2007
I did not know the man but was saddened when i heard the news on howards show.
rest in peace sir !
Karen
December 1, 2007
Although I went to school with Lonny, I did not get to know him very well. I hope that Lonny's family and friends are able to find some comfort in knowing that he was able to touch the lives of so many people throughout his life, especially with his music. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Elise Crapser
December 1, 2007
When
I heard of Lonny's passing on the Howard Stern show I felt a loss like a true member of the "family" was now gone. I enjoyed your interview with Howard just two short weeks ago and was entertained hearing about the man behind "When I See Beth Smile". Thank you for your beautiful song and for your strength dealing with your illness, never letting on how sick you really were. You have made an impact on millions of Howard's fans and you can rest in peace knowing how you truly made Beth smile.
Susan DiFluri
December 1, 2007
Music is eternal.
I never met Lonny, but heard his voice on the Howard Stern Show, and heard ShawBlades deliver it again later on the show. "When I See Beth" will forever be imbedded in my mind, as will Lonny's voice... I just wanted to let you know that he has touched many hearts with his music...more than he could ever know. God Bless all that know and love Lonny.
benjamin Karrass
December 1, 2007
may lonny find find peace we stern fans will always remember. His song wasa beautiful work and hopefully it will live and carry his memory forever
Jackie Daniels
December 1, 2007
It's Saturday monring, Dec. 1st and I am listening to the Howard Stern replay of the announcement of Lonny's passing. Tears are running down my cheeks once again. Thinking of his conversation with Howard and how excited he was to have his song being played and played with by the show and the fans - it breaks my heart that he did not live to see Shaw Blades give him his props. Lonny will live in my heard always and my deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
Joe LaForm
December 1, 2007
Many thoughts and prayers to Lonny. I hope When I see Beth Smile sounds as good when John Lennon and Jimi Hendrix perform it in Heaven. Thank you Lonny. Rest. You deserve it.
Ryan and Julie Albright
November 30, 2007
This shining star will be missed. The music that he wrote will go on and will remind us of the joy he brought to so many.
Carrie Schwarz
November 30, 2007
Our thoughts & prayers go out to Lonny's family & friends. We did not know Lonny but heard him & his song on the Howard Stern Show. If only God could have kept him on this earth 2 more days so he could have seen Tommy Shaw sing his song...
May Lonny Rest Peacefully
Respectfully,
The Schwarz Family
Jeff and Jane Seasholtz
November 30, 2007
Dear Linda, Lorelle, and Family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you on your loss of Lonny. What a talented person! May God's love and peace uphold you during this very difficult time. You will always carry a part of his spirit with you and as you treasure that, it will bring you some comfort.
May God Bless and Keep you all,
Jeff & Jane Seasholtz
Love, Ronnie & Karen
November 30, 2007
Dear Lenny (our very dearest and closet friend), Linda, Linette & Lorelle. There are no words to make you all feel better at this very sad time. Our love and deepest sympathy to you all on the passing of Lonny. He will be deeply missed by all of you, as well as by all of his friends. I have always believed that even after someone has passed they are still with us every day and part of everything that we do. He will forever be with all of you. I also truly believe that Lonny knows the recognition his song is getting at this time, and he is in heaven smiling. Please give us a call if there is anything you need.
Gabriel Padilla
November 30, 2007
My deepest sympathies to Lonny's family and friends. I get a smile when I think about how happy Lonny was to hear Tommy Shaw sing his song on the Stern show. God bless.
john cuth
November 30, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Dan Kostenbader
November 30, 2007
Lon, I'm still trying to grasp the fact that you are no longer with us. My prayers are going out to the whole family as well as Cindy as I'm sure they are trying to grasp it as well.
Man, I have so many memories of laughing and joking together! I was there when you finally found out that you had diabetes and I couldn't believe it then. I will remember sitting in your room listening to Queen on, yes, records as I recall. I will also remember trying not to get bitten by Zeke(your first dog). I hope you're playing with him right now!
I'm going to remember all the good times and there are plenty. You're going to leave a big hole in my life as well as a lot others.
I'm so glad the world finally got to get to know you through your music. I only wish you were here to truly enjoy it. Your guitar sounds great from here Lon. I sure will miss you!
Missy
November 30, 2007
I had been "introduced" to Lonny through the Howard Stern Show like so many others. I fell in love with his song and I've been humming it for weeks. The world has lost a talented man. I only wish that he had seen his dreams come true at Crock Rock.
MissBBS
November 30, 2007
I'm also a Howard Stern fan and only knew of Lonny from his beautiful song about Beth. He must have been a tender, loving man to create such touching lyrics. My condolences to his family and friends on their loss...my prayers will be with you all. BTW, I'm upset Lonny didn't get to hear/see his song performed at the concert. The good Lord made a big boo-boo with that untimely calling to Heaven.
Scott Werkhesier
November 29, 2007
My condolences to the family and friends of Lonny.Thanks to Lonny for all the smiles I had from hearing Beth's song on Howard's show.
D V
November 29, 2007
I am one of the many who only knew Lonny through his beautiful song on the Stern show. His voice and words reached the hearts of (dare I say) millions of people, and he will continue to do so for many years to come.
Ray Wuerfel
November 29, 2007
I would like to send my condolences to Family and Friends of Lonny. In the past weeks hearing Lonny on the air and hearing his great song made me aware of what a stong spirit he had; overcoming adversity and making others smile. I will always think of him when his song plays on the air and what a great guy he was.
November 29, 2007
to linda - if you're the same person i worked with years ago at widow browns in stockertown pa - i wish my sincerest sympathy -
Scott Werner
November 29, 2007
My deepest sympathies to the Heckman family. I grew up with Lorelle from Bushkill Elementary. I heard the news of his passing through The Howard Stern Show. His song he played was beautiful!!
God Bless you all!!
Greg Stahley
November 29, 2007
I too "met" Lonny through the Howard Stern Show. Now I realize this talented, creative and humble man lived only a few miles north of me. The Lehigh Valley is Proud! God bless Lonny. He has left his impression on this world with his song to Howard and Beth. Lonny's words will live forever. My thoughts and prayers are with Lonny's family and friends.
Kelly Zahradnik
November 29, 2007
Linda and Family:
I cannot even remember the last time I have seen all of you, but it has been way too long. I will always remember all the times Lonny and the girls and I shared as kids at family get togethers. I am so sorry for your loss. Lonny will be missed dearly.
All my love,
Kelly (Frack) Zahradnik
Matt Bishop
November 29, 2007
My best to the Heckman family. Lonny will be missed. His new found fame with Stern fans has launched him right through the stratospere, past the stars, and directly into heaven, where he will never be alone and eternally missed.
Mare P
November 29, 2007
My deepest sympathies for Lonny's family and close friends. Only God knows why he takes some so young. I'm sure by the outpour of affection I see on here, Lonny was certainly a wonderful human being who touched many lives and will be missed tremendously. Rest in peace, Lonny, for those close to you will one day be with you again to share in the joy and wonder of all that is God.
Jill Dantzer
November 29, 2007
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Heckman family.Though I never met him, he was a great guest on the Howard Stern show, I just wish he could have hung on a little longer to see his song being performed by Shaw/Blades.
Mikey
November 29, 2007
Wow, this is a total shock. I had no idea up until today that Lonny was from right up the road in Northampton! I thought he wrote such a great song for Howard and Beth. I did not know Lonny but just wanted to send deepest sympathies and condolences to the whole family. I hope that Shaw/Blades pays him a great honor and homage by performing the song he wrote live to a very packed crowd at the Croc Rock Cafe. God Bless all and godspeed.
Don Heffern
November 29, 2007
I am yet another of the millions that learned of Lonny through the Stern show. I think his original version of his song was fantastic and I'm sure he left many more. Please know that Lonny and your entire family will be in my daily Prayers. And always remember, he's not gone, just moved.
Joe
November 29, 2007
Thanks Lonny
Suzanne (Kleintop) Curtis
November 29, 2007
Please know that Lonny's friends and family are in my prayers as you deal with his loss at such a young age. I went to high school with Lonny, and I remember him as soft-spoken and very funny. Reading the words that are pouring in from all over the country, I am touched by what an impression quiet Lonny has made on so many people. May your memories carry you through these dark times. You are in my prayers.
A Fan
November 29, 2007
I am sad to hear of the passing of Lonny. Thank you for your song writing and weeks of entertainment on Sirius. You have made the Lehigh Valley proud. My prayers are with your friends and family.
Carol
November 29, 2007
Dear Lenny and family,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Lonny's death. May the wonderful memories of his life help sustain you through this time of mourning. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carol
Al Kandziorski
November 29, 2007
My condolences to the family and friends of Lonny. I only knew of him from the show and his song. Through his song Lonny has left quite a legacy. Even while dealing with what was a very difficult time in his life. Lonny should be remembered and celebrated as an inspiration to all that no matter how bad a situation may be. If you put your "best" into everything you do. You will be rewarded. God bless Lonny and his family. Comfort them during this very difficult time.
Eve
November 29, 2007
Wow! I can't believe this is the guy that wrote the Howard Stern song! I heard about this on yesterday's show....all of my deepest sympathy to the family of this sweet, sweet man. He really did touch the lives of the Howard Stern show gang and countless numbers of his listeners!
Rest in peace, Lonny.
Lynn Sinkovits
November 29, 2007
I did not get the chance to meet Lonny but I can only imagine the type of extraordinary person he was. Lenny, my thoughts and prayers are with both you and your family. With your strong will and sense of humor, you will all prevail and be better people for having Lonny in your lives.
Lois Stofko
November 29, 2007
You are sorely missed by all who love you.
George & Lois
Joseph & Kathryn Bunk
November 29, 2007
We were so sorry to hear about the passing of Lonny. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.
Jim Kutz
November 29, 2007
I was so upset when I heard of Lonny's passing. I didn't know him personaly, but after the interview on Howard's show you just know he was a great guy. Lonny will be missed by Stern fans everywhere. God bless you Lonny and my sympathy to your family
Shenna Hersch
November 29, 2007
To the family & freinds of Lonny, I do not know you nor did I know Lonny. Having diabetes on all 4 sides of my family I have seen the struggles & challeneges that come with the disease. I am sorry for your loss & will keep your family in my thoughts & prayers. Please know Lonny is in heaven watching & waiting for you. I hope you may find some peace in the poem below during the stormy hours, days, months, & years ahead, as your life will never be the same with the loss of Lonny. God Bless. Shenna Hersch
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Eric M.
November 29, 2007
Never met Lonny, but I heard his song on the show. What a talent and I never realized he was local. May your lasting memories comfort you in this difficult time.
Michael J. Verrone
November 29, 2007
To Family and Friends of Lonny,
Although I only knew Lonny's name and voice from the Howard Stern Show, I wish his family and friends my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. He made a permanent contribution to the Howard Stern Show, which will continue to be enjoyed by millions. For this as a fan I am grateful.
Mike Dellatore
November 29, 2007
Although we didn't know you personally- we truly appreciated your talent. You added a great addition to the Stern Show- Thanks from all of your fellow Stern fan's-
Mike
November 29, 2007
My condolences to Lonny's family. I just heard your mom talk to Howard and he was obviously saddened by your death and he was very respectful to your mother and family. You will be missed my friend.
Ricky Price
November 29, 2007
May God bless you all in your time of loss. Lonnie was fun on the Stern Show.
Stephanie May
November 29, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I knew of Lonny only through the Howard Stern Radio Show and the song that he had written and did not know him personally although hearing him on the radio the few times that I did, I sincerely feel he was an awesome person and will be missed dearly. Again, I am sorry for your loss.
Mare
November 29, 2007
To the family of Lonny Heckman:
I didn't know Lonny, but I do know his song from listening to Howard Stern. He was a great song writer. I am so sorry for your loss.
Dawn werkheiser
November 29, 2007
I went to high school with Lonny. Although I did not know him real well, I did have some classes with him and he was a real nice person. Never gave anyone a hard time and was there to help. I am sorry to hear about the loss of him. I am glad his was able to accomplish writing a song.
Lesley Ludwick
November 29, 2007
I am sitting here listening to Lonny's mom on the Howard Stern show with tears in my eyes. And although we all have never met Lonny, I know we can echo Howard's sentiments. I only hope Howard will pay the respect due to Lonny and have "When I See Beth Smiling" performed at their wedding. I am sure there will not be a dry eye in the house. Write on Lonny! You will always be remembered!
Lorelle Stofko
November 29, 2007
Lonny was one of my very best friends. I can not imagine how life is going to be without him. I am going to miss all of our many conversations (most of the time of nothing important at all). We could talk for hours. It is sad that things are happening with his music now, but he did get to enjoy the beginning. And let me tell you all who read this he was so happy to finally get some recognition, but he would never brag or boast about it. (that wasn't his way at all) He was such a major part of my life and I do not know how to go on without him. Please rest in peace Lonny and one day I hope to talk to you for hours and hours again.
Love, Lorelle
Terry Buckman
November 29, 2007
Heard the song on sirius. Did not know talent was so close by. Will be missed by all.
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