John W. “Mal” Heffernan, Sr., passed away July 11, 2021, at Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis at age 72.
Brother Heffernan never met a stranger and could always be counted on for a good laugh. He was a member of Iron Workers Local 392, the former owner of The Pizza Cellar, where he made many good friendships and family memories, and a pit boss at the Alton Belle Casino.
He had a kind soul and appreciated everyone he met. He was never one to judge, and he could find the good in anyone. He was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan and passed the love of the team down to his children and grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by those who knew him, but his “Mal-isms” will always be shared.
Brother Heffernen never passed up an opportunity to be with his family and loved being with his wife and children. As the years passed, his best title came as PawPaw, and he treasured all of his time with his grandchildren, Chayse Monroe, Kinley and Evelyn Heffernan, and Elias and Liana Heffernan.
He was born Jan. 17, 1949, in East St. Louis, Ill., and was the son of the late Thomas and Louise (Grogan) Heffernan. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Linda Heffernan, of St. Louis; and his four children: Jasmin Monroe, of St. Louis; John (Amber) Heffernan, Jr., of Jonesboro, Ark.; Conor Heffernan, of Edwardsville, Ill.; and Trey (Haley) Heffernan, of St. Louis.
He is also survived by his brothers, Michael (Diane) Heffernan, of Millstadt, Ill.; Tom (Kathy) Heffernan, of Williamsburg, W. Va.; and Mark (Bonnie) Heffernan, of Freeburg, Ill.; and several dear nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved granddogs, especially Mellie.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia St. Clair; nephew Daniel P. Heffernan; and brothers-in-law, Duane A. Loepker and Dale Loepker.
A funeral service was held July 14 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, Ill. Memorials be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
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