Carlton Gene Heck

 Surrounded by the love of his family, Carlton Gene Heck peacefully entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, July 16th, 2025.

Carlton was born on September 22nd, 1942, in Langdon, North Dakota, to Charles and Florence (Herriot) Heck. He was the proud eighth child in a bustling family of fourteen. He often shared stories of growing up on the family farm near Osnabrock—stories full of hard work, laughter, and the deep bonds of family. It was there, on that farm, where his lifelong love of farming truly began. He graduated from Osnabrock High School in 1961, where he played basketball and made lifelong friends. 

On February 15th, 1964, Carlton married his sweetheart, Linda Vondal, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Walhalla. Together, they built their home just south of town and poured their hearts into their family and farm. Their greatest blessings were their three boys—Steven, Shane, and Shannon—each of whom Carlton was incredibly proud of. He devoted himself fully to being a husband, father, and provider, and was always willing to step up to serve his community, including years on the township board and Walhalla School Board. 

Carlton had a knack for collecting tractors, could always be found cheering on his favorite sports teams, and never turned down a game of cards or dice. But beyond hobbies and interests, Carlton will be remembered most for his love of family. He never missed a chance to check in, plan a gathering, or lend a hand. He was the one who reminded us how lucky we were to have each other. 

That love only deepened as his family grew. When his grandkids came along, “Grandpa Carlton” stepped into his favorite role. He was their biggest cheerleader, asked the best questions, and taught them the things that really mattered—hard work, kindness, and always being there for your family. As great-grandchildren were born, his pride only grew. He often said, “Some people spend their life chasing a pot of gold, but your family is your pot of gold.” That’s how he lived every day—with his heart set firmly on what mattered most. 

Carlton is deeply missed by his loving wife of 61 years, Linda; his sons Shane (Lisa) and Shannon; his grandchildren Shana (Kyle), Steven (Selena), Seth, Shania, and Samuel; and his great-grandchildren Stella, Levi, Silas, Keaton, Kiara, Asher, and Isabelle. He is also survived by his siblings: Marjorie Thompson, Janice Peterson, Jim Heck, Richard Heck, Larry Heck, Marvin Heck, Leonard Heck, and Connie Close and several nieces and nephews. Welcoming him to heaven are his son Steven, twin daughters, and his siblings Duane, Selmer, Gordon, David, and Caroline, brother-in-law Randy Vondal, nephews Clint Close and Todd Peterson. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 2:00 PM at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Walhalla, ND, with visitation beginning one hour prior. 

Carlton’s life was rooted in faith, family, and hard work—and the love he gave so freely will continue to grow through every generation of his family.