David Heffron Obituary
He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1984 and attained the rank of Sergeant. As an airplane mechanic (F-15 fighter) and an aerospace propulsion specialist, he served with distinction and was honorably discharged in 1993.
Soon after his discharge, Br. Dave entered formation to become a friar. He was invested in the Order of Capuchin Franciscans on August 15, 1994 and made perpetual profession on August 5, 2000.
During his theological studies in 2002, he experienced a stroke while traveling on pilgrimage in Assisi, Italy. The stroke affected half of his body and greatly limited his abilities. In spite of his cross, Br. Dave served as part-time porter at the Solanus Casey Center in Detroit alongside his Capuchin brothers. Even through his limitations, he was a welcoming face for pilgrims who came to visit the Center.
In 2009, Br. Dave required more personal care and moved to Wisconsin to become a part of the Capuchin retirement community. He found ways to help his older Capuchin brothers and participate in their lives while he himself received care. Health complications would persist and he was eventually moved to the Veteran's Home nearby. Even as his health continued to deteriorate, he would sit and listen to the other veterans as they carried their own struggles.
While Br. Dave's story was unfortunate, he was a witness to his Capuchin brothers and to his fellow veterans about perseverance and hope.
He is preceded in death by his father James Edward Heffron and his mother Janet Rose. He is survived by his brothers James A. and Scott Heffron, his sister Lisa Vaden, as well as his many Capuchin brothers with whom he lived, prayed, and ministered for over 26 years.
Funeral arrangements will be held on Thursday, July 28 at St. Bonaventure Chapel, located at 1740 Mt. Elliott, Detroit, MI. Visitation will begin at 4PM. The Liturgy for Christian Burial will begin at 5PM. Burial to follow. A livestream of the funeral can be viewed at the following link https://thecapuchins.org/br-dave-heffron
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
Scott Heffron
July 19, 2024
It has almost been two years Dave, your still in my heart, thoughts and prayers.
Julie Renard
January 26, 2023
I'm so very sorry. I was told that your brother died by Brother Steve, it has been awhile since I went to the Monestary. Your brother loved my family. My parents & sister used to pick him up along with Brother Malcolm for lunch, plus we saved bottle tops for your father for McDonalds. Your brother taught me a lot about being humble, he called me Mother Superior Julie and I called him Pope David! Plus he called my parents Mom & Dad. I volunteered in the gift shop. When he was leaving the next day, they let me in the private residence to say goodbye to him. I'm so sorry. My family & I loved your brother. I will put flowers on his grave and a few other brothers in their cemetery, I asked if I could and they said of course. God Bless your family. Love the Renards
Scott A Heffron
July 27, 2022
My dear brother, I will miss you always. Your body failed but your soul touched many. You made a difference, GOD bless you.
Bonnie McLeod
July 26, 2022
Lisa, I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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Lisa M VADEN
July 25, 2022
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
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