John J. Heinrichs

John James Heinrichs, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025, at Zilber Family Hospice, surrounded by his wife and daughter.

Born on August 19, 1935, to John L. and Rose (née Barina) Heinrichs, John was given the middle name James—and with his father also named John, it didn’t take long before he was affectionately called “Jimmy.” His mother, Rose, needed a quick way to distinguish which "John" she was yelling for (or at), and "Jimmy" stuck early on. As he grew into the man the world would come to know and admire, he proudly went by John.

John graduated from St. John Nepomuk in 1949 and St. Catherine’s High School in 1953.

John’s life took a beautiful turn on Friday, December 18, 1954—the Friday before Christmas—when fate brought him together with the love of his life, Patricia. Though they had known of each other for years, their paths truly crossed when Patricia missed her bus, distracted by a letter from a Marine friend. At that exact moment, John pulled up and offered her a ride to work—which, as it happened, was right across from the Racine Journal Times, where John was employed. That chance ride led to their first date: a trip to Porter’s of Racine, a well-known multi-story furniture store. Their mission? Shopping for bedroom furniture—bold, humorous, and oh-so-John. (He later clarified, with a wink, that the furniture was for his parents.)

Some of Patricia’s most cherished memories were of Christmas Eve celebrations, where John was always in his element. He eagerly volunteered to play Santa, crashing through the front door in full costume, much to the delight of everyone. He never entered a room quietly—and he never left a heart untouched.

Professionally, John’s journey was as impressive as it was inspiring. At just 17, he became the youngest district manager in Racine Journal Times history. His sharp mind and relentless dedication eventually led him to the role of City Circulation Manager. Over a remarkable 33-year career, he built not just a career, but a legacy of loyalty, leadership, and tenacity.

In 1986, John embarked on what he considered his true profession—becoming an award-winning real estate agent with Coldwell Banker in Racine. He found great success, bringing his natural charm and extensive network to the world of real estate.

A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, John proudly held season tickets since 1958, attending more than 300 games over the years!

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Rose Heinrichs.

He is survived by: children, Michael Heinrichs (Shannon Giese) and Kathy (Mike) Setzer; grandchildren, Cynthia Ann Sheckles, Jessica (Rocky) Goodpasture, Michael Setzer, and Troye Setzer; great-grandchildren, Elijah Salamone, Donny Sheckles, Christopher Sheckles, and Scarlett Goodpasture; His beloved fur-grandbabies, Mudge and Halliday (his favorite) — "Those ears always perked up when they heard 'Grandpa'!"

His original fur-babies remains (Riley) will be interned with John.

The family would like to offer a very special thank you to Kathy Setzer for her tireless care and devotion to Mom through all of this, as well as to her husband Mike Setzer and sons Michael and Troye Setzer for the many sacrifices and unwavering support they gave. Your love and commitment have been a true blessing to our family.

An acknowledgment is also given to Eileen Stauss, who has been a self-assigned and devoted participant in all of the family's affairs, offering her constant support, presence, and love throughout the years.

John Heinrichs leaves behind a lifetime of stories, strength, laughter, and love. He was a man who stood tall, spoke plainly, and loved deeply. He will be remembered not just for what he did, but for who he was—to his family, his community, and to all the lives he touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, May 2, 2025, 11:30 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1533 Erie Street followed by entombment at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet prior to the Mass 10 am until 11:30 am.

In lieu of flowers for John, please send flowers to someone you love—while they’re still here to enjoy their beauty and the sentiment behind them.

Do something kind for each other. Don’t wait. Life is too short.