David A Heakins

DAVID A. HEAKINS

David A. Heakins, age 99, of Mesa, AZ entered into eternal rest on March 15, 2026. Born on May 29, 1926 in Flint, MI, David lived a life filled with faith, love and devotion to God and family.

Before he was a husband, a father, a grandfather or the quiet patriarch his family so lovingly leaned on, David was a young man who volunteered to serve his country without hesitation. He served as a First Sergeant in the United States Army Air Force during World War II, stationed in Japan, and he brought home with him not just his life, but a sense of what truly mattered, his faith in God.

David was preceded in death by the love of his life, Helen Heakins, to whom he was happily married to for 46 years. Together they created a nurturing and faith-filled home for their three children: James Heakins, John Heakins, and Suzanne (Heakins) Brooks (Brandon Brooks). He was a loving grandfather to three granddaughters: Jessica (Brooks) Ortiz (Jesus Ortiz), Melanie Brooks and Siena Heakins, who cherished his humor and unwavering faith. He was also preceded in death by his parents, David and Amelia Heakins and sister, Jean Marsden.

As a devout Catholic, David was a faithful member of St. Timothy Catholic Church for nearly 40 years. His faith was a guiding light with a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, which he expressed through his commitment to daily prayer. His dedication to prayer was both an inspiration and a source of strength for his family.

David’s working life was marked by dedication and passion. He served the Buick Motor Division for 39 years in Michigan, where his expertise and commitment were deeply valued. Following his retirement, his love for automobiles led him to a second career as a vehicle test driver in Arizona. He continued to share his skills and enthusiasm for 22 years, bringing joy and excitement to each day on the road or the track.

He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and driving as well as taking in a Diamondbacks or Suns game as often as he could.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on March 27, 2026 at 10 am at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 1730 W Guadalupe Rd., Mesa, AZ 85202. A Visitation/Rosary will be held the evening before on March 26, 2026 from 5-8pm at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Home at 1562 E Baseline Rd., Mesa, AZ 85204.

Eternal Rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.