Irvin Wesley Heckes died on January 16, 2024. “Wes”, as many called him, was the son of Carl and Thelma Heckes of El Reno, Oklahoma. Mr. Heckes was born at the family farm north of El Reno, OK on November 25, 1939. A graduate of El Reno High School, Irvin attended Central State University.
He joined his father in farming for several years but with the ceasing of farming, he became a press operator for the Oklahoma Journal newspaper, then he became an employee of the Rock Island Railroad. With the railroad closing, Irvin and his wife Juanita purchased and operated several dry cleaners in Oklahoma City.
In 1992, the couple moved to Branson, MO, where they operated a gift store until their return to Yukon, Oklahoma. He then was a land surveyor for several years. Heckes was an avid airplane enthusiast. He was very proud of his 1956 Ercoupe. He could make most repairs and often provided service on airplanes owned by his many friends at Clarence Page Airport in Yukon. Irvin served in the US Air Force National Guard for six years.
He is survived by his son Wade Heckes and wife Tracy, and their daughter, Robin Heckes; sister, Vonda Rice and husband, Jim Rice. He was preceded in death by his wife Juanita. His family wishes to thank Paul Lee, who helped his Uncle Wes with daily living and many months of caregiving.
Memorial Services for Irvin Wesley Heckes will be held at the Yanda & Son Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, February 3, at 1:00 p.m.
Memorial donations made be made to Beecham Cemetery Association, 4220 N.W. 143 Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73134.
Online condolences may be signed at www.yandafuneral.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Yanda & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Yukon, OK.
