Gerald P. Heitz, age 67, of South Haven, formerly of Cape Coral, FL, Shakopee, and Chaska, died suddenly of a massive heart attack on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at the St. Cloud Hospital.

Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 3, 2015 at Lake Union Evangelical Covenant Church in South Haven with Rev. Eric Marx officiating.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, Thursday at the church.  Arrangements are entrusted with Dingmann Funeral Care Burial & Cremation Services of Annandale.

Gerald Paul Heitz was born September 2, 1947 in Shakopee to Paul and Rose (Unze) Heitz.  He graduated from Shakopee High School and continued his education in the culinary arts.  Jerry served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War on the USS Picking.  On June 14, 1971, Jerry was united in Marriage to Carol Luebke in Albert Lea.  He worked for many years for Jerry's Enterprises; during his employment he was the deli and restaurant manager at Jerry's Foods in Sanibel Island, FL, managed Minnesota Meat Masters in Annandale and catered events at Jerry's Farm in Annandale.  Jerry was a Gourmet Executive Chef and catered many events.  He earned numerous awards as a chef including several for his chili.  Jerry served on the Southside Township Board and was currently serving as the Secretary of the Board of Directors at Kimball Golf Club.  He enjoyed woodworking; making many awards and plaques in recognition of others.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand to others.  Jerry's loves in life were making people smile, woodworking, golfing and his family.

He is survived by his wife Carol; son Anthony Heitz & his girlfriend Sarah Reed of Kingston; daughter Lori Jones & her husband Ryan of Annandale; granddaughter Morgan Jones; sisters Sandra Welter & her husband Willie, Jeannie Weekly and Patty Troll & her husband Dale; and brothers Robert, Frank, Jeff, Pauly and Jim Heitz.  He is preceded in death by his parents Paul and Rose Heitz.

Marleigh Rumsey will provide the music for the service.  Military Honors will be provided by Minnesota National Guard Honor Guard.