Dr. John "Jack" Heitner

1931 - 2022

Dr. John "Jack" Heitner passed away on April 10, 2022. Jack was born in May of 1931 in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Samuel and Constance Heitner. He was the big brother to Elizabeth Heitner, Kathleen Rhind and the late Diane Jacobs.

Jack joined the Marines during the Korean War where he became a First Lieutenant and training company commander. After the military he attended Hofstra University and received his Bachelor's degree, went on to receive his Masters at Cornell University and finished his education at the University of Rochester by achieving his (PhD) Doctorate of Philosophy.

He went on to marry the late Susanne James, and had three children, Randall Heitner, Steven Heitner, and Wendie Nelson. His granddaughter, Dr. Susanne Nelson, came along in 1994.

He began his teaching career at Albany State University for 3 years and spanned his career at Central Connecticut State University for 48 years as an English professor where he taught American, World and English literature as well as Mysticism classes and many more. He revived and was advisor for Central's literary magazine "The Helix" for many years. Jack was the author of several books, including his most recent "Particles of Love (In complete poems)". As well as being an author, Jack lectured at Universities and seminars around the world. He also did many lectures, readings and musical performances at Borders books and Barnes and Noble.

Jack was an avid Democrat, and was very involved in supporting, discussing and campaigning for and with many democratic organizations. He was also very involved with literary societies and Vietnam peace movements. And was very dedicated to the teachings of Eckankar.

Jack loved music, singing and playing his guitar and has written many songs over the years. He was an avid hiker and rock climber, and traveled around the world, always in search of knowledge.

Jack was known as a professor, poet, wrestler, songwriter, author, policeman, activist and philanthropist etc...but most of all we remember him as a loving Son, Brother, Father, and Grandfather.

The Heitner family would like all family and friends to join them in a Celebration of his Life. It will take place at The Eckankar Temple, 1 Harvest Wood Road, Middlefield, CT, July 30th at 1:00 p.m.