Heitzer

Raymond “Ray” Heitzer, 75, of Butler passed away peacefully in his home, Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, following a prolonged illness. He was born Jan. 24, 1950, and was the son to the late Dorothy (Heasley) Heitzer and Clarence Heitzer. His early years growing up on “The Island” in Butler led to countless memories and lifelong friends. Ray was a 1968 graduate of Butler High School and attended Butler County Community College before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1970.

Upon his return to Butler, Ray worked in construction and at the VA Hospital and Lifesteps, among other places. His wide-ranging skill set lent itself well to a variety of home projects and hobbies, including woodworking and renovation. But his most enjoyable pursuits were fishing at Lake Arthur and golfing at Lake Arthur Golf Club with his friends.

He is survived by his wife, Doreen (Kerr) Heitzer, whom he married Aug. 11, 1978. Ray is also survived by his daughter, Julie (Chris) Hertz; and granddaughters, Catie and Anna, of Allison Park. Known as “The Dad” to many of his daughter’s friends and “Poppy” to his granddaughters, Ray was incredibly proud of his family and instilled in them his sense of humor, and his appreciation for lemon pepper seasoning and Duct Tape.

Ray is also survived by his sister, Judy Grenet of Butler; sister-in-law, Donna Heitzer of West Sunbury; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Renelle and Frank Golba of Wexford, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Bill and Don; and his sister, Donna Sinz.

Doreen and Julie would like to express heartfelt thanks to family and friends for their unwavering support over the course of Ray’s illnesses. Sincere thanks also go to people at Butler Health System, Concordia at Rebecca, Concordia Visiting Nurses and especially the wonderful caregivers of Good Samaritan Hospice. There are too many to name individually, but you know who you are.

HEITZER — All services for Raymond “Ray” Heitzer, who died Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, were held privately through SPENCER D. GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 140 New Castle Road, Butler.

Donations may be made to the Butler County Humane Society, 1015 Evans City Road, Renfrew, PA 16053 (https://butlercountyhs.org/).

Please offer condolences at www.spencerdgeibel.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.