Owen Heitmeier

Owen Gilbert Heitmeier, 80, of Mediapolis, died Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

Born November 2, 1945, in Burlington, he was the son of Ralph and Mary Ellen Mull Heitmeier. In June of 1968, he married Patricia Cecil. They later divorced. On December 10, 1991, he married Genevieve Ann Pierce in Las Vegas, NV. She died on March 10, 2019.

He was a 1964 graduate of Mediapolis High School.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War from April 18, 1966 until November 9, 1967.

Owen worked on the production line at J.I. Case until his retirement. 

Owen was a hardworking and caring man who enjoyed the simple things in life. Most mornings, he could be found drinking coffee at Fast Break in Mediapolis with his friends, sharing stories before starting his day. He took great pride in mowing and caring for his yard, always making sure it looked its best. Owen was dedicated to overseeing the Highway 61 project and he loved farming alongside his brother and spending time outdoors. Above all, Owen treasured his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and were the highlight of his life.

Survivors include his sons, Mike (Teresa) Heitmeier of West Burlington and Dan Heitmeier of Burlington; two step-sons, Fritz (Jennifer) Runnells of Wapello and Dan (Jamie) Runnells of Wapello; nine grandchildren, Matthew and Joshua Heitmeier, Bryar, Bailey, and Brody Runnells, James and Jarett Wykert, and Brycelynn and Brittney Runnells; and one brother, Lloyd "Homer" Heitmeier of Mediapolis, IA.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Troy Heitmeier, son, Steve Matthew Heitmeier and granddaughter, Brystol Runnells.

The Celebration of Life for Mr. Heitmeier will be from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Full military honors will be rendered at 5:00 PM by the Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard to conclude his visitation. 

A memorial has been established for the Burlington Area Honor Guard. 

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