Rev. James B. Heininger

A graveside service for Rev. James B. Heininger, 90, of Granville be held on Friday, May 1, 2015 at 11:30 A.M. at Maplewood Cemetery in Spencerville, OH with full military honors. The family will receive friends Thursday, April 30, 2015 from 6 to 8 P.M. at the McPeek-Hoekstra Funeral Home, 133 S. Prospect St., Granville. At a later date, a memorial service celebrating the life of Rev. Heininger will be held, May 9, 2015 at 2:30 P.M. at Centenary United Methodist Church, 102 E. Broadway, in Granville with Rev. Stephen J. Cramer as celebrant. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the church from 1:00 P.M. until the time of service.

Rev. Heininger died Sunday, April 26, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born in Indianapolis, IN to the late Dr. Charles and Lulabelle (McKinney) Heininger.

A veteran of the United Stated Army, James served in the 125th American Anti-Aircraft Division during World War II. Later in life, he would author and publish those experiences in his book, Name, Rank and Serial Number, My 1000 Days Working for Uncle Sam. After WWII, he earned a BA from Bowling Green State University and Masters of Divinity from the Seminary at Oberlin College. He became an ordained Methodist Pastor in 1953. He served in the West Ohio United Methodist Conference and pastored for over 44 years in various communities. He was strongly committed to his walk with Christ and lived an outward example of his faith. Rev. Heininger was a member of Kiwanis, Jaycees, Grange, Vintage Voices, Centenary United Methodist Church Choir, and the Masonic Lodge.

Never knowing a stranger, Rev. Heininger had a genuine interest in others and quickly became a friend to all he encountered. He had a positive outlook on life and could see God's beauty and wonder everywhere he went. He enjoyed gardening, camping, and the love of family. Surviving are his wife of 67 years, Nancy (Sutton) Heininger of Granville; sons, and daughter-in law, James Heininger of Xenia, and Andrew (Marie) Heininger of Bellville; daughters and son-in-law, Amy Lu Heininger of Garwood, TX, and Julie (Jeff) German of Granville; grandchildren, Nathanael, Gordon, Samuel, Katherine, Carol, Sarah, and Abigail; and one great-granddaughter, Hazel.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by one brother, Charles Heininger; and three sisters, Helen Bernard, Martha Crabbe, and Kathryn Freed.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christian Lighthouse Church at 291 E Mark St, Marion, Ohio 43302, or Centenary United Methodist Church 102 E Broadway, Granville, OH 43023. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mcpeekhoekstra.com.