Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1952
DIED
2022
Lawrence Heiskell Obituary
September 3, 1952 - October 1, 2022
On October 1st, Lawrence E. Heiskell M.D., beloved son and brother, passed away at 70 years old. He was born to Lawrence C. Heiskell and Martha B. Heiskell of Blacksburg Virginia. Dr. Heiskell attended Randolph Macon College in Ashland, VA and Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, VA. He served several years in the US Antarctic Research Program, served on three expeditions to Antarctica and subsequently was awarded the Congressional Antarctic Service Medal in 1979. He attended the Autonomous University of Guadalajara for his medical training. He went on to become a double boarded emergency room and family practice physician. He practiced medicine and healing for over 35 years both in Virginia and California.
Dr. Heiskell founded The International School of Tactical Medicine (ISTM) in 1995. Homeland Security recognized this school and provided a grant to expand the teaching through PST (Police Officer Standards of Training). This school was the first of its kind and he co-authored the first textbook, then published by the ACEP (American College of Emergency Room Physicians). He lectured extensively in the US and abroad on Tactical Medicine and published over 60 articles and other publications. He was recognized by the Tactical Emergency Medicine Section of ACEP for his contributions to emergency medicine for this school and corresponding textbooks. He taught and educated police and first responders for over 30 years in tactical emergency medicine.
Dr. Heiskell served as a reserve police officer with Kern County Sheriff's Department, Riverside County Sheriff's Department and then with the Palm Springs Police Department. He spent 30 years as their SWAT physician. The Palm Springs Police Department, the Cathedral City Police Department and the Indio Police Department combined to form the Desert Regional SWAT Team. He was awarded Reserve Office of the year by the California Reserve Police Officers Association in 2020. His tireless dedication to the police and law enforcement community was his passion along with being a world class collector of World War II militaria.
Dr. Heiskell is survived by his sister, Katie Heiskell of Rancho Mirage CA, his brother David Heiskell of Blacksburg,VA , his nephew, Tyler Heiskell of Richmond, VA, and his beloved long haired dachshund, Jax.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on October 15th in Rancho Mirage California. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you please consider a donation to the Joy Ranch Orphanage in Hillsville, VA. Website: joyranch.org.
Memories and Condolences
for Lawrence Heiskell
5 Entries
Thomas Lavey
October 2, 2025
Lawrence was a true Renaissance man, exceptionally gifted, deeply knowledgeable, and endlessly curious about the world around him. He brought insight, wisdom, and grace to every conversation, and his passion for learning was both inspiring and infectious.
I was fortunate to first know Lawrence as my instructor, and over time, that relationship grew into a cherished friendship. Despite his immense talents and intellect, he remained remarkably humble, a quiet strength who never sought the spotlight but whose presence lit up every room.
His passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him. Lawrence's impact was immeasurable, and the space he leaves behind will not be easily filled.
Rest in peace, my dear friend. Until we meet again.
Carol Rogala D.O.
September 30, 2023
It´s hard to believe a year has passed. I miss my friend and colleague.
Thomas Valdriz, Reserve Deputy Sheriff
November 5, 2022
Dr Heiskell was a great man who used his medical skills to help thousands of police officers in California survive situations requiring emergency medical aid. He will be greatly missed.
Pam
October 15, 2022
Lawrence was one of a kind. Full of energy, funny and loved life. A great person to know and spend time with though not as often as would have like as I live on the East Coast. Met him 7th or 8th grade. Just the best human to ever have in my life.
David and olivia Cummings
October 9, 2022
Last night we were talking about times in our life, and my wife ask, wonder how Lawrence Heiskell is doing. Out of the blue.
We knew he was in California. I remember him as a fellow Resident student, always kind, and smiling. Would help anyone. We always enjoyed his company and wonderful stories.
Saw this today in obituaries. Had chills. We are so sorry to hear of his passing.
You raised a wonderful son, brother and friend. Our condolences.
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in Lawrence Heiskell's name
Memorial Events
for Lawrence Heiskell
How to support Lawrence's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Lawrence Heiskell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
