Steve T. Heil

Steven Thomas Heil, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on July 13, 2023. Born on February 23, 1941, in Minster, Ohio, Steve was the only son of the late Werner and Dorothy (Kuehner) Heil.

After high school, Steve joined the Navy in 1958, serving as an MP on the USS Newport News until 1962. His service included challenging moments during the Bay of Pigs Invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Following his naval service, Steve continued to serve his community as the Chief of Police in Minster, Ohio, from 1962 to 1970. Beginning in 1970, Steve became a police officer in Vandalia, Ohio, until his retirement due to heart health issues. Steve's dedication to his community did not stop there. He transitioned to a role as a civil engineer inspector for the City of Vandalia, serving there until his retirement in 2000.

Steve's interests extended beyond his career. He was passionate about collecting, particularly interested in beer can collecting. He was a proud Brewery Collectibles Club of America member and had a special affinity for collecting Wooden Shoe Beer items from Minster, Ohio. Steve took pride in his countless stories, forever entertaining his family with humor and wit.

Steve married Jo Ann (Dillehay) Heil, originally from Fort Loramie, Ohio. Together they raised three children, Susan (Andy) Kittles, Patricia (Greg) Smith, and Douglas (Jill) Heil, and they have four cherished grandchildren: Emma, Maddie, Abbey, and Blake.

Steve is survived by his wife of 59 years, children, grandchildren, brothers-in-law Jack Dillehay and Ralph Meyer, numerous loved ones, and lifelong friends. His parents and other siblings-in-law, James A. Dillehay, Jean Meyer, Polly Dillehay, and Patricia Dillehay, preceded him in death.

The family will be receiving friends from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 19, at Morton & Whetstone Funeral Home, 139 S. Dixie Dr., Vandalia.

Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 20, at St. Christopher Catholic Church. Rev. Fr. Andrew Smith will officiate.

Interment with military honors will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions should be made in memory of Steve to the Vandalia Police Department.