"Boyd" G. Heitman's Obituary
Boyd Heitman passed from this life peacefully, November 26, 2017 at home in his sleep. Gerhard “Boyd” Heitman was born December 30, 1933 to Gerhard and Jansje (Chonfour) Heitman in The Hague, The Netherlands. Boyd immigrated to the United States when he was 18 years old. He made his home in California until 1980 when he moved to Claremore, Oklahoma.In Holland, when he was a boy, they always called him Boy. The immigration lady said, ” that’s not going to work here in the United States.” She suggested he use the name Boyd. That is how he became known as Boyd.When he lived in California, Boyd worked for the Los Angeles Times as a pressman. Upon moving to Claremore he worked at the Claremore Daily Progress until his retirement.As a young boy he grew up during World War II in occupied Holland. He saw many injustices and talked about these with his family and friends.Boyd was married to Dottie Friday 40 years before she passed away March 4, 2001. To that union, Eric Gerhard was born. Boyd raised “Buffie” Delker as his own daughter.Boyd and Dorothy Coffel were married in July, 2002. They made their home in Claremore.His interests were dancing and carpentry. He made many fine pieces of furniture for his home.Boyd is preceded in death by his son: Eric Heitman; his parents; and all of his siblings.Boyd is survived by his wife of 15 years: Dorothy Coffel; daughter: Lana “Buffie” Delker; stepchildren: Sherry Lavine, Mike Geubelle, Michelle Parsley, Trudi Haase, Connie Dollens and Brent Geubelle; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be missed by all.Boyd requested that there be no services.
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