Terry J. Heinsen

Terry J. Heinsen, 61, of Oak Harbor, Ohio, passed away, Monday, November 25, 2024, at Stein Hospice, Sandusky, Ohio, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was born in Toledo, Ohio, May 10, 1963, the son of Anton and Gloria (Branum) Heinsen. He was a dump truck driver, who worked laying asphalt and hauling stone for most of his life.

Terry was one of a kind. A rambunctious, rebellious and fun-loving person who was so full of life. He was always wanting to go somewhere or do something because he didn’t want to miss out on anything. He loved being the center of attention and usually made sure he was in most situations. He loved being the life of the party and you would always find him with a smile on his face that was quite infectious.

Terry enjoyed watching NASCAR when it was still simple racing as Jeff Gordon was his favorite driver. He loved watching the Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Indians. He enjoyed riding his Harleys and working on them, as he was very mechanically inclined. Terry listened to music on a daily basis as it was a great comfort and stress reliever for him. His favorites included “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, “Cashmere”, by Led Zeppelin, “I’ve Always Been Crazy”, by Waylon Jennings, and “Ballroom Blitz”, by Sweet, just to name a few.

Terry also had an immense love for his one and only son, Eric, and his four grandchildren. They were always on his mind and he spoke of them daily. Almost all his free time was spent with his girlfriend, “His Secretary”, of 28 years, Heather. When she was not working, they were inseparable. Most of their time together was spent drinking a few beers, but mostly just enjoying each other’s company on their patio when they lived along the river.

Terry enjoyed swinging his nun chucks, as he was “The Ninja” and talking to the rabbits that came to visit which made him the “Rabbit Whisperer”. He and Heather enjoyed watching all of nature’s wonders, right in their yard. Terry especially loved watching the eagles fly over, as they were his favorite bird, and they made him feel protected; he is now pain free.

Fly high and soar with the eagles Terry!

Terry is survived by his girlfriend, Heather Leemaster, son, Eric Heinsen, grandchildren, Brody, Kinsey, Aubrey and Brantley, sister, Tanya (Mark) Thorbahn, niece, Kira Thorbahn and nephew, Laif Thorbahn. He was preceded in death by his father, Anton Heinsen and mother, Gloria Hart.

There are no services scheduled at this time. Those wishing to make a memorial in his name are asked to consider the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com. The Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Oak Harbor have been entrusted with arrangements.