John R. Heglin

July 14th, 1950 - October 15th, 2020

Memorial

Mementos

The Heglin Family, via John's sister, Ruth, has issued the following Obituary: John Ray Heglin was born to Rev. Raymond and Harriet Heglin on July 14, 1947 (although he always preferred to identify the birth year as 1950!) His childhood was spent throughout the Midwest, in Oakland, IL; Hiawatha, KS; Fairbury, NE; Crookston, MN; Minneapolis, MN; Glidden, IA; and Woodward, OK; all were at Presbyterian Churches where Dad and Mom served. In Ames, IA, he attended Iowa State University, majoring in architecture. John loved to travel and headed west, falling in love with Los Angeles, where he was certified with the California State Board of Architecture. Living in the various neighborhoods of LA provided him with opportunities to meet and establish many lasting friendships over the years, and he continued to enjoy travel adventures with a number of them. John was a very generous man to his family, as well as with his time and ambitions for organizations and causes in which he believed. He is preceded in death by his Father in 2008, and is survived by his 101-year-old Mother, his sister, Ruth, brothers Mark and Paul, nieces Raychelle and Coleen, and nephew Zach. Dear John, you are loved and will be missed, but remain always in our hearts.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor John’s life with a heartfelt message.

Sanjiv Bajaj

I just found out about John's passing. John and I worked together at Aleks Istanbullu Architects about 15 years ago. He was the kindest, sweetest man, always willing to help, always with a big smile and with a great generosity of spirit. He always made time to mentor younger staff in the office and gave generously of his time. I last met him in 2015 for lunch, but we texted on and off. My last text went unanswered and I thought I better check in, and alas I stumbled across this obituary. Luckily, John lived a good life despite his health issues and characteristically left behind all these memories in the lives he touched. Be well, my dear friend. Until we meet again...

Published June 4th, 2021

Susan Peterson

The Heglin family has asked that the following be shared as submitted by John's sister, Ruth: Wanting to share sad news of our Mother, Harriet Heglin's passing in the morning of Dec. 17th. She was 101 years young! Harriet had tested positive for Covid 19, fourteen days earlier and we thought she was going to be ok as her vitals were good on a daily basis. On Tuesday night, however, her breathing became difficult, she was agitated and placed on oxygen and medications. The Home allowed Ruth to see her in full PPE, on Wednesday morning. Harriet recognized her, and conversed somewhat. In our sadness, we are feeling some joy that she and John and our Dad are reuniting.

Published December 19th, 2020

Susan Peterson

With very fond memories of time spent with John, his relatives, Dorothy & Rod Soderstrom and Robyn & Bob Nelson, have sent donations to be contributed to the fund of his choice: LA LGBT Center.

Published December 12th, 2020

Vincent Tipaldo

It was a blessing to know John. John was caring, funny, vivacious and insightful. We always had great walks (that were also architectural tours, which I loved). His gift of friendship was so purely from the heart. Thank you my friend! Rest in peace and love...

Published May 14th, 2021

Claire Gorfinkel

Rest in Peace, Harriet Heglin. Today (12/17) I received a text from Mark, that Harried passed away this morning. She was 101. She led a long and good life; she was well loved and cared for by her family. Our hearts go out to all the siblings and cousins who cherished her company.

Published December 17th, 2020