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William Heggarty Obituary
Heggarty, William (Bill) Johnstone
Bill Heggarty, 78, passed away peacefully in his home after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia on January 14, 2022. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years Susan Heggarty, daughter, Emily Beckett (Dr. Nathan Beckett), son, Daniel Heggarty (Mary Kate Hafner), and grandchildren, Eleanor & Henry.
Bill was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the son of William Henry Heggarty & Carolyn Leavelle Johnstone, and brother to Carol Ferguson (James Ferguson).
An accomplished Eagle Scout, he graduated from Ferguson High School in 1961. Later in life, he enjoyed mentoring Boy Scouts in St. Louis & at Philmont Scout Ranch, New Mexico.
Bill graduated from University of Missouri - Columbia in 1965 with a degree in elementary education. He was a proud member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity. He completed a MAT from Webster University in science education. He went on to teach in Pattonville elementary schools for eight years.
In 1972, Bill and Sue began restoration of their home in Lafayette Square. Living in the neighborhood was the choice to make every day an adventure. It was a life centered on building a community with a diverse group of like-minded people of which friendships have lasted more than 50 years.
While teaching, Bill started a motorcycle business called Sidecar Restorations, with friends, Bob Odell & Brian Casey, in a Lafayette Square carriage house. Bill would say that he "ruined a perfectly good hobby," when he turned his passion for motorcycles into a business, which later evolved into BMW Motorrad, St. Louis.
For more than 30 years, the motorcycle business brought the opportunity of travel and connection to individuals around the world. Many trips were spent searching Germany and other parts of Europe for vintage sidecars and motorcycles to be restored.
In 2017, Bill & Sue relocated to Columbia, MO to be close to family. Being near his grandchildren brought Bill much joy in his final years. Bill often fondly remembered drinking good German beer and sharing stories with friends.
"When in doubt, read the manual." - Bill Heggarty.
Services: Celebration of Life in Spring 2022.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Lafayette Park Conservancy.
https://www.lafayettepark.org/donate-to-the-lafayette-park-conservancy/
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Heggarty
Valerie Zimmerman Huber
September 18, 2023
I was a student of Mr. Heggarty in 1972. I was in 6th grade. He was one of my favorite teachers.
Jerry Wyatt
July 4, 2023
Bill and Sue got me started on BMW motorcycles back in 1970. I still ride here in 2023. He and Sue had us over decades ago to see slides of their motorcycle trips to Europe. I was hooked for the rest of my life. Sue and Bill were a wonderful couple to know.
Janet Taylor
May 2, 2022
I just happened upon this obituary. Bill and my mother taught school together and became good friends. Bill and his wife shared dinner with my parents often and as young children, we loved that side car. I am sure he left great memories
Vicki Joy Coppin
January 19, 2022
Mr. Heggarty´s Briar Crest 4th grade class of 66-67: we grew green beans, & he cooked them in a beaker, over a bunson burner borrowed from the science cart so we could taste them! We had bug collections, an aquarium, an after-school trip to the fish store in Mrs. Heggarty´s borrowed VW bug, because we wouldn´t all fit on Mr. Heggarty´s motorcycle! So many great memories. Thank you, Mr. Heggarty. I am sure you left us taking your final ride in a sidecar into the great beyond!
Jayne Kasten
January 19, 2022
Bill was a great man who will be remembered by all who knew him. Our deepest sympathies are sent to his family and friends.
Annie Denny-Lehrer
January 19, 2022
Mr. Heggarty was always quick with a smile and it was a honor to know him. What an extraordinary life he lived and I know that so many people are better for knowing him. Mrs. Heggarty, Emily and Daniel you have my deepest condolences. Em, your dad was a legend in these parts. I'm so sorry. <3
Gloria Brazell
January 19, 2022
Sue, I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Gloria Brazell
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