DERRICK EDWARD HEISZ

Derrick Edward Heisz, 45, of Gays Mills, a beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly due to a work accident on August 24, 2023. Born on January 1, 1978, in Janesville, Wisconsin, to Paul and Arlene (Abraham) Heisz, Derrick was a beacon of creativity, selflessness, and spirited adventure throughout his 45 years. Derrick was a proud graduate of Brodhead High School, class of 1996. His early education laid the foundation for a career characterized by dedication and resilience. As a utility worker and contractor, Derrick traveled across the U.S., restoring power to hundreds of thousands of people and working on major storm damages. His work, often involving the hanging of high-voltage electrical transmission lines from helicopters, was a testament to his fearlessness and commitment to service. A man of many passions, Derrick lived his life to the fullest. He had a heart of gold and was always ready to lend a helping hand. His love for adventure was evident in his fondness for skydiving, a hobby that paralleled his high-flying career. Derrick was also deeply connected to his roots, showing a special interest in his grandfather’s farm, and expressing a deep love for his local community. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending quality time with his family, creating memories that will be cherished forever. Derrick’s family was not limited to his human relatives. His ‘children’ were his beloved dogs, Cooper and Willie Nelson, and his goats, Burt and Calvin. His love for his pets reflected his generous spirit and his capacity for unconditional love. Derrick is survived by his parents, Paul and Arlene Heisz; his siblings, Rollin (Hattie) Klick, Karla (Edwin) Ensor, David (Theresa) Klick, Ronni (William) Stampfli, and Brielle (Travis) Weiss. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Zachary and Collin Klick, Melissa Vantuyl, Ryan and Kyle Strehlow, Danielle Klick, Ronessa Lund, Ashely Straveler, Kayla Gauld, and Erika Stampfli; many great nieces and nephews; his aunt, Pamela Martin; special cousin, Jennifer New; special friend, Kesha Blaha; and numerous other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Francis Dutch-Heisz and Pauline Joyce Heisz; maternal grandparents, Carl and Bertha Abraham; and two infant brothers, Ronald Jr. and Rodney. Derrick’s life was a testament to his creative, selfless, and spirited nature. His passion for adventure, his dedication to his work, and his love for his family and community will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and in the communities he served.

A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at Scenic Rivers Energy Cooperative, 15985 WI-131, Gays Mills, WI. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service. A Celebration of Derrick’s Life will be held in Brodhead at a later date. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com.