James Richard Heck

James Richard Heck beloved husband and family man passed away peacefully July 18, 2025, in Arvada, Colorado. He was born on October 26, 1935, in Clifton, New Jersey to the late Evelyn (Dickerson) and George Heck.

Jim’s childhood was marked by turbulence between his parents. He attended schools in New Jersey, Virginia, and Texas and by sheer determination graduated from Ridgewood High School in June 1954. In August of 1954 Jim enlisted in the Army planning to use the GI bill to attend Wooster College. Jim’s time in the service was primarily spent in Korea, and he often regaled the family with stories of his experiences there. Upon his discharge he attended Wooster College. He graduated with a BA in Political Science in June 1961 and moved to California to realize his dream of being a newspaper man eventually changing course earning an MA in Public Administration and becoming a city manager in California and Colorado.

Jim was fortunate to have many loves in his life, including marriages to Anne Stocker and Nancy Freeman.

His deepest love, however, was for Shirley Cameron. They met through common association with the Denver Regional Council of Governments and married in 1981. Joining their families and sharing their love of Colorado, camping, skiing and hiking. Through Shirley, Jim learned the value of being surrounded by a loving family. They enjoyed traveling with friends to see the world yet were grounded in their faith and community at Arvada United Methodist Church.

Jim had a tender heart, generosity of spirit and a playful attitude that made him fun to be around. He had a hat for every occasion and was always ready to dance or go to the DQ.

Jim is survived by his children Richard (RJ) Heck (Diane), Mary Jo Cameron and Paula Bishop (Billy), Marsha Schultze (Ken). He was preceded in death by his stepson, Mark Cameron. His 10 grandchildren include Joey and Drew Heck, Cameron, Megan and Courtney Schultze, Laila and Braeden Cameron, Cheyenna Hernandez, Barbara Lambert, and Allan Arkenburgh.

Memorial service will be Wednesday June 24th at 2:00pm at Arvada United Methodist Church, 6750 Carr Street in Arvada. A small reception will follow at the church.

Memorial contributions can be made to Arvada United Methodist Church (https://arvadaumc.org)