Gerald L. Heckendorn

Gerald L. Heckendorn, a master craftsman and lifelong adventurer, passed away on February 28, 2026, in Mesquite, Nevada, at the age of 73.

Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Gerald was the son of the late James P. Heckendorn and Mary L. Shafer. He held a deep and lifelong appreciation for Colorado history, finding endless fascination in the stories and rugged landscapes that shaped his home state.

During his years in Colorado, Gerald was happiest when his hands were busy and he was bringing something new to life. He spent much of his time rebuilding cars to their former glory and was often found "off the beaten path," Jeeping through the mountains he loved so dearly. He especially loved using his Jeep to explore old mines, seeking out the hidden remnants of the state’s storied past. His most charming contribution to the state remains at Tiny Town, where he built four of the iconic miniature houses—a project that allowed him to leave his own mark on the local history he so enjoyed.

After his retirement, Gerald moved to Mesquite, Nevada, where he embraced a more peaceful but equally creative chapter of life. He traded the mountain trails for the potter's wheel and the garden, finding a natural gift for shaping pottery and tending to his garden. Whether he was working with clay or soil, he continued his lifelong habit of creation and growth until his final days.

Gerald is now reunited with his beloved wife, Suzzanne, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his siblings, Jim, Linda, and Larry. His legacy and creative spirit also live on through his daughters, Wendy (Gregg), Cindy, and Pamela (Dan). He was a proud grandfather to Alexandra, Miranda, Alyssa, Mikayla, Austin, Tiana, and Aten, and a great-grandfather to Zariyah and Izabella.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Gerald’s memory to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF). Your contribution supports the acceleration of a cure for every patient.

• Online: themmrf.org/donate
• Mail: P.O. Box 414238, Boston, MA 02241-4238