4

Obituaries

Obituaries » William (Bill) Elroy Heineken

William (Bill) Elroy Heineken

August 14, 1956 - July 27, 2022

Obituary Viewed 1145 times

LAKELAND – Mr. William (Bill) Elroy Heineken, III, 65, resident of Lakeland, Florida, Passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2022.

Bill was born on August 14, 1956, in Islip, New York, to William Elroy and Maud Mary-Lill Heineken, Jr.

After attending junior college in New York, Bill transferred to the University of Florida, where he became a large part of the Gator Band and an accomplished trombonist. His passion and influence were shared with both his son and nephew, who also took up trombone.

His contributions of music in the community were unmatched. Bill was active in local churches (Victory Church, Highlands Park Church, and Carpenter’s Church) and local schools (Southwest Middle, Lakeland Senior High, Harrison School of the Arts).

He actively participated in the Boy Scouts of America Troup #104, while helping his nephew achieve his Eagle Scout.

He and his wife, Toni, attended Family Worship Center.

His work ethic was so strong, that at the age of just thirteen, he owned and operated his first business. He later earned his licenses as a real estate broker, an auctioneer and a certified appraiser. Bill worked in those industries for over 30 years.

The motto he lived by was “One Stop, We Do It All.” As we all know, whatever it took to accomplish a job – Bill did it.

Bill had a passion for woodworking, and it was evident by anyone that needed a hand – whether it was building shelves, crafting furniture, or building a cradle for his granddaughter, every piece he created was created with love.

His personal respect as a professional was voiced by many:

“He was the best friend a man could have.”

“I always enjoyed talking with him.”

“I am definitely going to miss him, especially hearing him complain about politics.”

“He was such an amazing person, always giving, and caring for others.”

“He was the salt of the earth.”

“No one compared to him in showing appreciation and following through with the most heartfelt notes.”

“He loved his family and expressed it in too many ways to count.”

 

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Shirley. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 25 years, Tonnette (Toni); one sister, Sharon; one brother, Tom; and children, Jacqui, Katelyn, Chad, and Patrick, as well as two grandchildren, Sebastian and Lacey.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held Friday, August 5 at 6:00 PM in the Family Worship Center’s Joy Center. Visitation begins at 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Bill’s name to the Harrison School of the Arts.