Don Farrell Heinerikson

With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Don Farrell Heinerikson, age 81, of Gravois Mills, Missouri, who passed away at home on December 30, 2024. He was born on June 1, 1943, in San Francisco, California to the late Thomas and Mary (Bingham) Heinerikson. He grew up with his three siblings, Joe, an identical twin brother, younger brother, Thomas and sister, Sue McNutt. He lived in Overland Park, Kansas, attending Shawnee Mission North High School, Kansas State University and Rockhurst University. He was united in marriage to Patricia Ann Dana. Together they had three children: Michael, Gina and Angele and he later adopted another daughter, Tabitha Herrlein. While living in Olathe, Kansas, he went to work for the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller at Olathe Kansas Control Center. He and his family later moved to the Gravois Mills area of Lake of the Ozarks where most of the family still remains. He started a construction company, helped start Celestial Greetings, worked for the Missouri Division of Family Services and later became a realtor for Pat Mitchell Real Estate in Laurie, Missouri. Don lived a life of service to his family and community. After moving to the lake area, he joined the Gravois Volunteer Fire Department and served as a fire chief and an EMT for Cam-Mo Ambulance Service. He was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and an emergency foster home provider for many children of all ages. He helped save and enrich many lives. He also saved a family pet on one occasion when he was able to put a dog’s dislocated hind leg back in place. There was not much Don could not do and earned the title/nickname "Doctor Don" and titled himself “Dr Backwoods”. He was the one the family called to ask for advice when any kind of medical situation occurred. He lived his life in a very honorable way following the teachings of the Urantia Book and was very involved in the dissemination of this revelation, hosting many study groups and volunteering in leadership roles for the organization. Doing “The will of his Father” was of utmost importance in the very spiritual life he led. He always put others first and this was one of the ways he lived as an amazing example for his children and grandchildren. Don also enjoyed aviation. He built several planes and helped found the EAA experimental aircraft chapter 1294 of Lake of the Ozarks. Don was a wonderful son, husband, father, teacher, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather. He taught his children many skills such as carpentry, astronomy, medicine, boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and many more. He enjoyed a good bonfire with his family and many friends and he will be missed beyond measure. There will be a Celebration of Life for Don at the American Legion Zack Wheat Post 624 in Sunrise Beach, Missouri, on Sunday, January 19th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel.

Don Farrell Heinerikson

June 1, 1943 - December 30, 2024

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Don Farrell Heinerikson

June 1, 1943 - December 30, 2024

About Us

What We Do

Contact KG/Locations

Grief & Healing

Plan Ahead

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