Jame J. Heinz Obituary, 82,McNamara Alumni Center General Manage Has Passed Away

Jame J. Heinz Obituary, Death – At 82, James J. Heinz died on August 17, 2023, entering Eternal Life. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, daughters Sara (Scott) and Angela (Aaron), and five extraordinary grandchildren, Ben, Max, Will, Gavin, and Madelyn. His sisters, Jane of Moline, IL, and Julie of Waterloo, IA, survive him. His life had several milestones…He was a football official for the Iowa High School Athletic Association. He was a United Way Public Relations Committee member, Waterloo Elks Lodge No. 290 officer, and Black Hawk County Chapter American Cancer Society Board member. University of Northern Iowa appointed him to the inaugural UNI-Dome Policy Board.

He pitched for the Waterloo Merchants in college with a 90-mph fastball. Boston Red Sox scouts noticed his pitching. He was in the Iowa Army Reserves when he hurt his right shoulder during military training. He returned to college without knowing his Boston fate. He has treasured and worn the Boston Red Sox cap for years. He worked with Colle McVoy Advertising for over 30 years after leaving college. He hosted a values and employee ownership session for prospective hires at the agency. Colle McVoy became the first advertising agency to win National ESOP Company of the Year.

A growing number of issues led Colle McVoy to ask him to dismiss an employee. He interviewed and, instead of terminating, promoted the employee. She adjusted her behaviors and became his team’s most productive. Over time, his hard work made him Executive Vice President. After the agency sold, he wasn’t ready to retire. He spent 18 years as Gateway Corporation COO and McNamara Alumni Center General Manager. In March 2021, he retired during the epidemic. He still needed significance. He petitioned for and was appointed to the Shorewood Park Commissioners Board until his health declined.

His golfing mother and grandfather, the head pro at the Phelan Golf Course in St. Paul, made him good, but baseball was his passion. Jim devoted his life assisting others with decency, respect, and kindness. He liked family, friends, and vodka martinis. Though he leaves a void in our hearts, his family is glad for lifelong memories. Christian Burial Mass 2 PM Visitation begins at 1 PM on Friday, September 15, 2023 at St. Therese of Deephaven, 18325 Minnetonka Blvd. After Mass, reception at Pique Travel Design, 306 Water Street, Excelsior.