William “Bill” Edward Heishman Jr., 86, husband, father, grandfather, retired business owner, motorcycle enthusiast, RV traveler, friend, prankster, and “outside in the barn general Tinkerer”, lost his battle with heart disease, and passed away in his home on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 with his wife, Joyce, by his side. Although Bill did not live as long as some, he packed as much living as he could into his almost 87 years.
Bill was born in Kansas City, MO on April 12, 1937. He grew up outside Independence, MO, and after graduating from Fort Osage High School went on to work at the Ford plant in Claycomo.
Who knows where it initially came from, but he always had a love for motorcycles. Even though his mother said he would never get one. When he was 9, his dad gave him a cow. He fed and raised the animal and eventually sold it and used the money to purchase his first motorcycle. His joy of riding turned into a 26-year career of amateur and professional racing. He even tied a world record for the ¼ mile in 10.56 seconds at 150.8 mph in June of 1964.
During this time, Bill married and had children, (Joyce, Billy, Debbie, Tammy, Roger, and Gary). After some time raising the children by himself, he met Janey Harp. Bill and Janey were married, and Janey became MOM to the five youngest kids. As if life was not busy enough, Bill and Janey established Liberty Cycle Center, and opened their doors on April 1, 1968.
Once again – as if that was not enough, another child, Jeff, was added to the mix in October 1969. After 32 years of marriage, Janey passed away in October 1996.
Liberty Cycle Center was an important part of the Heishman family’s life, and Bill became well known in the local community, as well as, in the motorcycle community at large.
Bill retired in 1995 and his son, Jeff took over running the business. Liberty Cycle Center is now known as LCC Powersports, and will celebrate 56 years in business later this year.
In 1998, Bill was fortunate enough to meet Joyce and another wonderful connection was made. Bill and Joyce were married on July 2, 1999.
A blessed life was again built and shared – with lots of family gatherings, RV traveling, winters in Texas, attending grandkids’, and great-grandkids’ numerous activities, and more. LIFE WAS FULL, AND WELL LIVED.
They enjoyed 24 years of marriage and made several houses their home over the years. In 2007, they built their forever home in Odessa, MO. Perhaps not wanting to be too close to any of the kids all the time, they also built a winter home in Mission, TX that they enjoyed for several years.
When you think about Bill, some words quickly come to mind.
Family, faith, generosity, happiness and fun.
Bill might not be physically with us any longer, but his love, kindness, and zest for life will live on in so many cherished memories. His smile and his life will carry on in everyone that cared for him.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Heishman; four of his children, Joyce Leslie (John Leslie – deceased), William “Billy” Heishman, Debra “Debbie” Torres (Matt Curtis), Jeffrey “Jeff” Heishman (Donna Heishman); one of his step-children, Katheryn Brummell (Jim Brummell); 13 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren as well as Joyce’s 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Cooper (Doyle Cooper).
He was preceded in death by Janey Heishman (October 25, 1996), his children: Tammy Howard (October 25, 2008), Roger Heishman (June 4, 2011) and Gary Heishman (June 20, 2019), and his step-child, Rachel Scroggins (June 17, 2016). Also preceded in death by his sisters, Fern Wright (Leon Wright – deceased), Jewell “Judy” Mulkey (Jerry Mulkey – deceased), and Wanda Sims (Bob Sims – deceased).
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 17th at 11:00 a.m. A private family dinner will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Heart of God Fellowship, 3720 N Buckner Tarnsey Rd, Buckner, MO 64016 or Venmo @Joyce-Heishman and put Heart of God in the memo.
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO 816-690-4441
Dennis Shrout
17 Feb 2024Bill was a great friend and a fantastic person. I have many memories of time spent talking to Bill. Most people will not know many of the great things that Bill did. God speed Bill, heaven gained a great person.
Russ Howard Sr.
21 Feb 2024I’ll miss him forever until we’re reunited.I had the privilege of being married to his late daughter Tamara jo.She loved him deeply and I know she was waiting at the gates of heaven for the reunion.So long pops I appreciate everything you did for Tamara and I and more importantly what you’ve done for my kids since she passed in 2008.Save me a seat I’ll see you on the other side.Ill love you forever.
Brenda L Moore
21 Feb 2024I remember Bill and Joyce from my time working at First Central Bank. They were both held a very special place in my heart. Rest in Paradise Bill. Deepest Condolences and Prayers to Joyce and family,