Ted Heidke

Ted (Theodore) Frank Heidke, age 82, died tragically September 12, 2025, after being hit by a car walking in a crosswalk on his daily walk.

Ted was born September 11, 1943, to Esther Heidke (Heling) in Clintonville, WI. He graduated from Clintonville High School in 1961. He was in the Army Reserves right out of high school. Ted worked at Menasha Corporation for 38 years and retired in 2004.

Ted will be remembered for the way he lived with such generosity, joy, and determination. He gave his time freely as a volunteer firefighter and with Habitat for Humanity, always ready to help others. He loved the open road and traveled all over the country on his motorcycle with Kitty. In retirement Ted and Kitty traveled for summers at a time, slowly transitioning to primary residence of Florida--claiming the new title of "snowbirds."

Ted's presence brightened up the room. He always had a huge smile on his face. He enjoyed playing cards, a cold beer, traveling, watching the Badgers, and most importantly spending time with family. Countless times he showed up for those who loved him. He never complained and inspired us all with a 9-year streak of walking 9,000 steps every single day. His spirit of kindness, adventure, and resilience will stay with everyone who knew and loved him. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, uncle, neighbor and will be truly missed.

Ted is survived by his wife, Kitty (Schmoll); children: Laura Pink (Brian), Cindy Mason (Matt), Bill Langenhuizen; grandchildren: Kobi Langenhuizen, Grace Langenhuizen, Riley Pink and Taylor Pink, and Amanda Jeske (Mitch); Siblings: Pat Boettcher, Tom (Sally), John (Sue), Susie, Sandi Frassetto (Tony), Jim (Judy), and too many special nieces and nephews to name.

He is preceded in death by his mother: Esther Heidke; mother-in-law: Lily Schmoll; son: Tim Langenhuizen; brother-in-law: David Boettcher; nieces and nephews: Jolie & Steve, Mario Frassetto, Abram.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the people that stopped, prayed and tried to save Ted after the accident. The support from the community has been appreciated.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at O'CONNELL FUNERAL HOME (1776 E. Main Street, Little Chute) beginning at 3:00 p.m. until 4:45 p.m. His Funeral will follow at 5:00 p.m. We will conclude with Military Honors, conducted by the Kaukauna V.F.W. 3319 and American Legion Post 41.

In lieu of flowers, donate to Habitat for Humanity or better yet, donate some of your time.

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