Published: August 20, 2024, 6:29 p.m.
John Paul Heyde, 89, of Montgomery, Texas, passed away on August 3. He was born in Fairfield, Connecticut, to John Theodore and Wilhelmina Heyde. John proudly served his country for 30 years in both the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Coast Guard, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer E-7, demonstrating unwavering patriotism and dedication.
A graduate of Roger Ludlow High School in Fairfield, John was actively involved in the U.S. Naval Reserve program. His military career took him to various locations including Otis AFB Mass., Chanute AFB Ill., Beale AFB Yuba Calif., Fairbanks AFB Alaska, and Plattsburgh AFB NY where he worked as an engine mechanic. After serving in the Air Force, John settled in Newtown where he continued his career in aircraft manufacturing with Avco Lycoming and Perkin-Elmer. His involvement extended beyond his professional life as he also served as an auxiliary police officer for the Newtown Police Department and the Lake Zoar Authority, volunteered as a firefighter for the Botsford Fire Department, and was a Freemason.
John’s passion for dogs, fishing and hunting shaped his life. After living briefly in New Milford, he moved to Montgomery, Texas in 2002.
John was preceded in death by his son David, his beloved wife Martie, and his brother Bob. He is survived by his four children and their spouses: Anne Martin (Todd) of Sandy Hook; Russ Gunther (Danielle) and Randy Gunther (Karen) of The Woodlands, Texas; and Rick Gunther (Laurie) of Deerfield, Illinois. He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Amy, Scotty, Abby, Timmy, Katie, and Justin, and his brother Ron (Sue) Heyde of Fanning Springs, Florida. John will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
A memorial service honoring John’s life will be held on Sunday, September 1, at 2 p.m. at the Tree of Life Lutheran Church, 3201 N Loop 336 W, Conroe, Texas (online livestream available). His military service and burial will be on Tuesday, September 3, at 9:45 a.m. at the Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Montgomery County Animal Shelter (8535 Hwy 242, Conroe TX 77304) or the Shriners Children’s Hospital (donate.lovetotherescue.org).
John Paul Heyde
