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Colonel Michael E. Heenan

Colonel Michael E. Heenan obituary

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Swan-Law Funeral Directors

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Colorado Springs, Colorado

Michael Heenan Obituary

Michael E Heenan, beloved husband, father and friend passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on March 12, 2014 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Edward and Jane Heenan.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte, four sons, Brian, Kevin, John and Tim, five sisters, Mari O'Brien, Connie Heenan, Pat Ellen Heenan, Jill Heenan and Sharon Galbally, and three brothers, Kevin Heenan, Brian Heenan and Jack Heenan.

Mike was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania the second of nine children to Edward, an Air Force pilot, and Jane Heenan. He graduated from Saint Joseph Prep School in Philadelphia in 1962 and the United States Air Force Academy, in Colorado Springs, CO in 1966. While at the Academy, he received high marks in Academics, Military Training and Athletics. He coached and played on several Wing Championship Intramural Teams resulting in Cadet Squadron Three winning the Mulanaphy Trophy for top squadron in Intramurals.

Mike attended Undergraduate Navigator Training at Mather AFB, Sacramento, CA. Prior to attending Navigator Training, while on Temporary Duty at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver Colorado, he met the love of his life and wife of 46 years, Charlotte Ostmeyer He received his Masters in Communications/Public Affairs (Magna Cum Laude) from Denver University. His military schools include Squadron Officers School, Armed Forces Staff College and Air War College, receiving the Commandant's Award.

Mike had many distinguished accomplishments during his Air Force Career. As a Weapons Systems Officer (GIB) flying out of Udorn Royal Thai Air Base he flew combat missions over Southeast Asia where he was shot down and rescued, after evading both enemy forces and a variety of natural jungle threats. He quickly returned to finish out his combat tour after recovering from his injuries. He was later honored to escort the remains of his pilot, who had perished when the aircraft went down, for burial at Arlington National Cemetery, when they were repatriated after the war.

Mike was one of the Air Force's first Navigators to hold the position of Fighter Squadron Operations Officer and Squadron Commander, holding both positions in F-4 squadrons at Clark Air Base, Philippines. He later served as the Support Group/Installation Commander at Wheeler Air Force Base, Hawaii. Mike's last assignment was the Director of the Air Force War Gaming Center at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. He retired as a full Colonel after 26 years of distinguished service.

After retirement, Mike and Char moved to Colorado Springs and then to Stockton, Kansas, Char's hometown. In Stockton Mike assumed the status of "Gentleman Farmer" and small town politician, serving on the Stockton City Council as both Council Member and Mayor. Eventually they moved back to Colorado Springs, CO.

Mike's many decorations include the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross w/1 OLC, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal w2/ OLC and Air Medal w/10 OLC.

Mike's loving wife, Char, was the center of his universe for 46 years; while their four wonderful sons - Brian, Kevin, John and Tim - were the pride and joy of their long life together. Mike and Char have always been unequaled in generosity and willingness to share their home, love and hospitality with friends; but especially with the many Air Force Academy Cadets they have sponsored, showing them by word and example what it means to be an Air Force officer and loving family.

Mike always exuded a marvelous, contagious sense of humor and was a devoted husband, father and brother. He was both an extraordinary patriot and an unforgettable friend; and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Godspeed, Mike.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at the Cadet Catholic Chapel at 10 AM on 17 Mar, 2014 followed by interment at the USAFA Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please give to your favorite charity in Mike's name.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Mar. 16, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Heenan

Not sure what to say?





November 12, 2014

To my childhood friend who I remember with laughter and admiration. Rest in peace Michael.

JR

Mae Downs

April 28, 2014

Dear Char,

Sorry to hear about Mike's passing. I send you and the boy my deepest sympathy. My prayers and blessings to you.

Love,

Tom and Carol Shaw

April 11, 2014

Char,
Carol and I were shocked to hear of Mike/Snake's passing. He was a great WSO and Squadron Commander and together
you both made the 3rd TFS something special

Patty Mangis

April 8, 2014

Thinkking of you with blessings and prayers. I remember you and Mike from long ago.
Ed and Patty Mangis

Marion Reynolds

April 6, 2014

Char: This note comes to you from friends of long ago, Chaplain Marion Reynolds and Nancy, from AWC Class of '85. We were just having lazy Sunday afternoon and Nancy was just thinking about some of our experiences in the Air Force and Mike's name just came to her. On pulse, she checked on the 'net and Mike's funeral notice came up. Needless to say, we are saddened by learning about your loss. Mike was a true friend and we shared many great experiences at AWC and especially all the rides to classes! We grieve his loss with you and your sons. He was one of the finest persons we met in our Air Force experiences. Be assured of our prayers and appreciation for both of you.

Jim and Patt Mullen

March 23, 2014

Dear Char,
Mike Heenan played a very important role in our lives. He introduced us almost 47 years ago at the Lowry AFB Officers Club. Over the years since Patt and I always enjoyed every occasion we were with you and Mike. He is one of my favorite classmates; an unforgettable character,an outstanding officer in the USAF, a great person, great company and a kind soul. He will be greatly missed by many people.
Sincerely,
Jim and Patt Mullen

Larry & Nancy Conyac

March 19, 2014

Dear Char and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. You have our deepest sympathy. May God comfort you and bless you.

March 19, 2014

Dear Char and family, Bill and I are deeply saddened by the passing of your Mike. He will forever be remembered as the kid marching up and down the aisle of the camp bus singing McNamara's Band.You are all in our prayers.
Love, Bill & Patti O'Brien McFadden

March 17, 2014

To Char and the Heenan family, my son Max and I send our condolences and our blessings. Mike, rest in peace dear friend. Carol Hanson

Richard Oliver

March 17, 2014

Mike finished the race well, and now has earned his crown of glory in Heaven -- PTL! Love, Dick and Pam

Dick Oliver

March 17, 2014

Mike finished the race well, and now has earned his crown of glory in Heaven -- PTL! Love, Dick and Pam

March 17, 2014

Dear Char, I'm glad we had one more chance to visit with you and Mike at last years 43rd TFS Reunion. You two were great friends of Meredeth's and myself.. May God continue to watch over you. John Borchert

Bill Kennedy

March 17, 2014

Char, it was with the deepest regret that Cathy and I learned today of Mike's passing. He was a true patriot, trail blazer, and the most people-oriented individual I have ever met. Our time together in the Philippines was truly special. Hopefully we can honor Mike by continuing to live consistent with his principled love of life and caring concern for others... while squeezing as many smiles as possible into every day. Cathy and I send you and the family our sincerest condolences.

Michael Tucker

March 17, 2014

"Snake"
You will be missed by so many folks. I am sorry that I couldn't raise a drink with you one more time. You were my flight commander, ops officer, mentor, adviser and my friend. RIP, Check Six!
Babytuck

Cheryl & David Calvin

March 17, 2014

To Char and her family; we are so sorry to have learned about the loss of Mike. When you two moved away from Stockton, you were so sadly missed by everyone here in Stockton. God Bless Mike and all of you!

Kris DuMond

March 17, 2014

Dear Char and Family, we are so sorry for your loss! Mike was a wonderful person! I enjoyed listening to his past experiences and we are fortunate to have you as a neighbor. Mike will be missed! We love you! Kris, John, Megan and Juliet DuMond

March 17, 2014

Condolences, God Speed. Barstoolers Best Wishes on the first St. Patrick's Day without your good cheer and support!

OB

Art Suro

March 16, 2014

A life well lived, Snake. Never seen without a smile, never refused to help. Always the first to volunteer, you are missed by this squadron mate and classmate. God bless you and your family. Art

Jean and Guy Chavez

March 16, 2014

Mike was a really good guy. We always admired how generously he gave of himself to his country, family and friends. We will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys.

Rocket Radtke

March 16, 2014

There were none like him before, and there will be none like him after. "Snake" was a champion of a Fighter Pilot and a friend. It was my distinct pleasure to count him as a friend. I will miss him sorely and treasure his memories.

Jim & Cathy Gagnon

March 16, 2014

RIP "Snake". Our deepest sympathies to Char & her family!

colleen richardson

March 16, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with Char and your family.

Kevin Heenan

March 16, 2014

Reading these messages has been very comforting to my family. All of dad and mom's military friends were like family to us. So many good memories moving all over the globe following my dad's career in the Air Force. So many fond memories of the Philippines and Hawaii especially. The support shown by all these friends has been overwhelming and kept my mom in a comfortable place. Thank you from a grateful son-

Julie Hartner

March 16, 2014

I feel so blessed to have known Mike and welcomed into your family. All my love and prayers to your family.

Joshua Price

March 16, 2014

My heart goes out to all of you.

David Wilson

March 15, 2014

Mike was a great friend and leader. He was my Ops Officer with the Flying Fiends in Korea, and saw him again a few years later in the PI. He was a great humanitarian, as was all of his family, in helping others on a very persoanl level. He will be missed by many.
"Shadow"

March 15, 2014

Char and family. Peggy and I treasure the time we had with you both at Maxwell. Our best to you and the boys. Miss your Christmas letter. Charles and Peggy Thigpen. (Judge)

Mike Trapuzzano

March 15, 2014

Mike (Snake) Heenan was the finest officer, gentleman, leader and friend that I have ever known. Carol and I will sorely miss him, and our hearts go out to Char and their sons.

Gary Test

March 15, 2014

Condolences to all your family, Mike. It was a great pleasure and honor to work and fly with you in Alaska and Korea. God speed and rest in peace.

March 15, 2014

So sorry for your loss, he was a great man. Prayers to you char and the boys. Love Joey and Joni Bellerive

Pam Steager

March 15, 2014

Sincere condolences to Char, the boys, and the entire Heenan clan. Thinking of you all and sending love during your time of grief and healing.

March 14, 2014

We are Sending Our Heartfelt condolence to The Heenans Family....Thoughts and Prayers goes to each an everyone.....We love you all


Linda ,Bibian and Kevin Wilson
Canada Alberta

March 14, 2014

Char and family.....Am so very sorry to learn about Mike; a person didn't have to be around him very long to know he was a great guy! My thoughts, prayers, and sympathy are with you all. Blessings, Linda (Maddy) Ficken

Roger Schmitt

March 14, 2014

The world has lost a great patriot, leader and mentor. We all have lost a good friend. Godspeed MIchael.

Rog Schmitt

Jan Smith

March 14, 2014

Char,sorry for your loss.

Dick Stamler

March 14, 2014

I would be appropriate if sdomeone read " do one more roll for me". I have a link if anyone is interested.

March 14, 2014

Terry and I sending condolences to Char, the boys and all my Heenan cousins - Love and farewell to Mike. Love, Maggie

Michele Cowan

March 14, 2014

Mike will be sorely missed at the AOG. He was a funny, warm person and a joy to talk to. My sincerest sympathies to your family.

March 14, 2014

Mike, an intrepid aviator and great friend from Alaska to Arizona to Kansas in our case. God bless you and the boys, Char. Clint and Marilyn Hanna, Del Rio, TX

sandra staton

March 14, 2014

Will miss you very much. My heart is with you Char and your family.

March 14, 2014

Colonel Mike Heenan,
Mike you were a great Air Force Officer and aircrew member. You and John made a team to be reckoned with. God Bless you and your family. Ross Peeler,43rdTFS

March 14, 2014

Rest in peace, Mike. I think we owned the OClub at Maxwell for a long time. Enjoyed what you were doing at the Wargame Center. I will pass what you told me about your rescue to the Raven FAC--Ronnie Reinhart--who dragged the Jolly Green to the tree you were leaning on. The world is a lesser place without you.

Don Mau

March 14, 2014

Judy and I send our condolences and remembrances of the great times in Alaska.

March 14, 2014

Mike-God rest ye merry! Enjoyed our time at Maxwell and hunting at Hayes. Blessings to Char and the boys. With deepest respect, Greg Fowl

Francie Richmond

March 13, 2014

Col. Michael Heenan, you were a great person and will be miss by all of us. Every time I saw him, he always had that nice smile to say hello to you. My sister Linda was so lucky to have such good people to work back in Clark Air Base.

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