Obituary of Edwin Heikkinen

Edwin Gerald Heikkinen was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 21, 1948. He was one of two children born from the union of the late Enzio and the late Gertrude (Hill) Heikkinen. Gerald graduated from Monroe High School, with the class of 1966. After high school, he went on to serve his country honorably, by enlisting in the United States Army. Upon discharge, Gerald had received a National Defense Service Medal, a Silver Star, a Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service stars, a Combat Infantryman Badge, and many other special honors and awards. Gerald married the love of his life, the former Joyce Meadors on September 16, 1989. Together they would raise one son. Over the course of 35 years, Edwin supported his family by working construction for 20 years and driving trucks for 15 years, eventually retiring in 2014. When Gerald wasn't working, he loved to spend time on his Harley, always staying true to his first love, the Carleton Motorcycle Club with over forty years of membership. Gerald loved his family and was a fantastic step-father and husband. He spoiled his wife and always did all of the shopping. He was a good, honest, and loyal man who enjoyed spending time with his friends watching football. He was a member of Teamsters, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 180, and enjoyed listening to music. Edwin Gerald Heikkinen, age 67 of Carleton, Michigan passed away at home on Monday, November 16, 2015. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-son, Ernest MacLellan in October, 1994. To cherish his memory he leaves his wife of twenty six years: Joyce Heikkinen of Carleton; a brother: Robert Mattson of Minnesota, and countless friends. Friends may gather from 11:00am to 2:00pm on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe (734) 384-5185. Military honors will be presented at 2:00pm under the auspices of Monroe Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1138. A Sharing of Memories will follow, also at Merkle's where loved ones will be invited to share special memories of Edwin Gerald. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.