Jeffrey Heffelfinger

Jeffrey Wayne Heffelfinger, 58, passed away on Thursday, December 30, 2021 at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines. A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, with a memorial service immediately following at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at Adventure Life Church in Altoona. Jeff desired a casual celebration of life. Please wear your favorite (or Jeff’s favorite) sports team apparel in honor of him. Jeff was born September 7th, 1963 in Newton, IA. He graduated from Mingo high school in 1981 and received his Bachelor’s degree in education from University of Northern Iowa in 1985. In that same year he married Lisa and moved to Dubuque, IA where they started their family. Instead of using his education degree, he worked for Ertl Company designing toys, such as model tractors and racecars. In 1995, Jeff’s family moved to Altoona, IA and he began working for Delavan/Goodrich. In his 24 years of employment at Delavan/Goodrich, he served many different roles including as senior project manager and weld engineer. Jeff had passion for all things sports. He enjoyed playing golf, racquetball, basketball, and bowling. Any sport on TV was a favorite – but Jeff particularly enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Bears, and Kansas City Royals. However, his pride and joy was watching his daughter play volleyball and son play basketball. For years, Jeff was a drummer on the praise team at Adventure Life Church. He served as a deacon and treasurer at the church. He was also involved in teen challenge, Cursillo, served as small group leader, and helped with numerous charities. In September of 2021, Jeff was promoted to Grandpa when grandson, Asher, was born. Jeff was the most proud grandfather. He never hesitated to share pictures and stories of his grandson, even in his final days to all the nurses and hospital staff. While we are saddened by Jeff’s death, we are grateful for the extra 15 years of life God blessed Jeff with. In 2006, Jeff was diagnosed with a large brain tumor and was told he likely only had 6 months or less to live. Defying all odds, Jeff continued to bless the world with his presence. His death brings freedom from his battle with cancer, and he has won the ultimate prize of meeting his Savior. Jeffrey is survived by his wife, Lisa; son, Jeremy Heffelfinger; daughter, Hollie (Tyler) Finders; grandson, Asher Finders; parents, Jerry and Margery “Luanne” Heffelfinger and sister, Jeri Ann Heffelfinger. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lindsay Heffelfinger. Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League, Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Teen Challenge of the Midlands. Online condolences may be expressed at www.caldwellparrish.com.