John Heuer Obituary

John Heuer

December 11, 1946 - November 16, 2016

Pittsboro

John Heuer left this world too soon and too suddenly leaving his many loved ones and friends reeling. John was first and foremost a Peacemaker. Throughout his life John was devoted to the belief that war had to be abolished. A prophet of Peace, John exuded a personal spirit of nonviolence. His tireless work for Peace gave those around him a sense that a better world -- one where Love prevails over hate -- is indeed possible.

In his roles as national secretary of Veterans For Peace and state chair and director of N.C. Peace Action, John brought vibrant energy and programs that helped educate thousands about the futility of war. Born in Detroit, John was preceded in death by his parents, Kay and Doc Heuer. Survivors include: wife, Sue Merris; sons, Jack (Heather) and Gordon; brothers Jeff (Betsy) and Bob (Karen); sister Helen Anstaett (Richard Becker) ; granddaughter Josie; stepdaughter Sunny (Jon); cousins Chuck (Becky),Cathie (Doug) and Suzanne; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Following the news of John's death, many who loved him posted remembrances online. The national Veterans For Peace web site said of John: "The world has lost a tireless warrior for peace."

Another friend called John: "a person of unparalleled warmth and positive energy, but with an equal measure of real fire for justice and peace ... welcoming and kind with every person he met, possessing an unrelenting desire to involve both veterans and active-duty soldiers in the mission to dismantle the U.S. war machine (and he wasn't afraid to get arrested doing it)."

At times, John faced harsh criticism for his belief in nonviolence, but his steadfast embrace of Love for others and his gentle demeanor made his message even more powerful and convincing.

The Heuer family is planning a memorial celebration of John's life following the holidays.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News and Observer on Nov. 27, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for John Heuer

12 Entries

barry riesch

December 2, 2016

Just finding out about John's passing. Brings me great sorrow. A truly wonderful man. Am glad for the opportunity to get to know him. One of my better customers too for buying VFP products.

Love you John. Your work is done here. May your soul rest in peace. May you continue to help us from whatever vantage point you can. We still really need help

Barry Riesch
Chapter 27

Don Anderson

December 2, 2016

I've been missing you since Occupy Freedom Plaza John, and before that when we coincidentally met again sitting at the same dinner table during the VFP Convention Portland & of course you coming to meet The Magic Bus in North Carolina Oct 2007! Rest My Brother, we'll meet again...Your value endures in those you touched. So Many of Us!

James Christner

December 1, 2016

Virtue is its own reward.
RIP, John!

Dolores

November 29, 2016

Dear Sue, sending love and caring thoughts your way.

Sharon House

November 29, 2016

Sympathy to the family and all who loved John. This earth has lost a special person. May we all live our lives as he did, to make this world a better place.

Alan Moran

November 28, 2016

My deepest condolences to John's family. John was a colleague, and friend to all who knew him. Please know that your family's loss will be felt by many at UNC.

November 28, 2016

I could never forget John from those years at Chapel Hill together: in my mind's eyes, I will always see his face, his smile, his determination, his voice and his love of singing.

Thanks for teaching me about life and the values that are foreign to me.

I am sad for your great loss, Jack, Gordon and everyone in this special family. I hope you allow me to join the celebration of John's life with you.

Hugs,
Angkana Bode
Facilities Architect
NC State Staff Senate Chair 2016-2017

Fleming Best

November 28, 2016

So sorry for your loss.

Sally Shaw

November 28, 2016

So sorry to hear of John's death. I knew him when he lived in Nova Scotia and then when when we moved to North Carolina. He was always so kind and welcoming. It was great to reconnect with him and his wife Sue when they came to Nova Scotia several years ago.

Michael Panellla

November 28, 2016

Dear John, a fiierce warrior for peace and justice., breathed love and showed it with a sweet smile, laugh and with determined action to stop military violence, racism and sexism. He was one of the best examples of what we humans can be. Thank you John for gracing me with your friendhip For many years and your steadfast example of a peacemaker. ❤ U ... Michael Panella

Rob Becker

November 27, 2016

Although, I never met John, there was so much love felt by a part of Helen's life, that I'm saddened by his passing and express my deepest sorrow for the family and also the sincerest hope that those that were touched by him can carry on the torch of peace and hope in an uncertain world.

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