William Lester Heitman

William Lester Heitman, 87, of Independence, MO passed away on Thursday, December 22, 2022. A service will be held on Friday, December 30th at 2pm at Carson-Speaks Chapel, 1501 W Lexington Ave., Independence, MO 64052. Interment with full military honors will follow at Oak Ridge Memory Gardens.

Lester was born on October 4, 1935, in Portageville, MO to John and Eva (Rickman) Heitman. In 1954, he entered the US Navy as a seaman where he proudly served for 4 years on the U.S.S. Norris. Lester was a member of Sheetmetal Workers Local #2 for over 40 years. He enjoyed involvement in Boy Scouts, traveling in the RV, and participation in a local Metal Detector club with Shirley. He will be greatly missed.

Lester is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Shirley; and his daughter, Rhonda.

He is survived by his children, Rick (Christy), Evon, Michelle, and Dwayne (Krysti); 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 1 great, great grandchild; 3 siblings, as well as his beloved dogs, Missy and Gigi.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shep's Place Senior Dog Sanctuary.