Willis J. Heideman

Willis James Heideman, age 87, of Mayville, passed away at the Waupun Christian Home on September 25, 2026.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Willis will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mayville with Rev. Fr. Zachary Galante presiding. Visitation will take place at the church on Friday, October 2, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow the service at St. Mary Cemetery in Mayville.

Willis was born on July 8, 1939, the beloved son of John and Beatrice (Aalsma) Heideman. He was a graduate of Oakfield High School. After high school, Willis went on to study at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and the St. Francis Seminary Deaconate Program.

On August 10, 1963, Willis married the love of his life, Phyllis Pask. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, service, and countless cherished memories.

Willis was a devoted husband and father who took great pride in his family. He was a loving father to Brenda, Bob, Tom, and Mary, and his children were a constant source of joy and pride throughout his life. He especially treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories that they will carry with them for years to come.

Willis lived his Catholic faith through a lifetime of service to others. He was an ordained deacon in the Catholic Church, ministering to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and
prisons, as well as visiting those who were homebound or shut-in. His faith called him to meet people wherever they were in life and offer them compassion, comfort, prayer, and friendship.

His commitment to serving his community extended well beyond his ministry. Willis was active in the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the local food pantry, helping provide assistance to those in need. He was also involved with St. Mary’s Parish, the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion, and the Mayville Fire Department. He found many ways to give his time and talents to his community, including coaching the MEC Little League baseball team, Babe Ruth baseball team, and St. Mary’s girls basketball team. Whether serving his church, his community, or a young athlete learning the game, Willis was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Willis also proudly served his country as a member of the Army National Guard for six years. He was called to active duty and served at Fort Lewis for 10 months from 1961 to 1962.

Willis enjoyed a long and successful career with Metalcraft of Mayville, where he spent the majority of his working years. He was proud of his work and the many years he devoted to his career, earning the respect and friendship of those he worked alongside.

Outside of work and his many commitments to family and community, Willis enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing and hunting pheasant and deer, and he looked forward to time spent golfing, bowling, and playing cards with friends. These activities brought him not only enjoyment, but also many friendships and fond memories.

Above all, Willis will be remembered for his kind heart, strong faith, and willingness to help others, and the love he gave so freely to his family. He lived a life of service—not because he sought recognition, but because caring for others was simply who he was. His faith guided him, his family gave him joy, and his community benefited from his generosity and dedication.

Willis leaves behind a lifetime of love, service, friendship, and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched, but his legacy of faith and kindness will continue through the many people he served and loved.

Willis is survived by his loving wife Phyllis; his children: Brenda (Al) Schulz, Bob(Jacki) Heideman, Tom (Sarah) Heideman, and Mary (Grant) Zoldowski; his siblings Ken (Rose) Heideman, Sherry Heideman, and Jon (Patty) Heideman, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, dear friends and family.

Willis was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Fernald; and his sister Kathy.