Donald Heller

Donald Arthur Heller, 91, of Saint James, died on June 24, 2025, at Mayo Health System in Saint James. The Lord called him to his heavenly home.

A private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in Saint James. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

Don was born November 3, 1933, to Herman and Adella (King) Heller in rural Butterfield, Minnesota on the family farm. He attended school in the Butterfield area. On April 18, 1958, he married Janice Jensen in Saint James. Together they raised three children, Mark, Corinne, and Blair.

Don lived in Saint James all his life. For many years he worked for the Saint James Public Schools as Custodial Superintendent until retirement. He enjoyed raising and showing pigeons. Through the years, he and Janice had many beloved dogs in their home that brought a lot of joy to their life. Don loved his family and anytime he could spend with them. Visits from his grandchildren and great grandchildren were special to him. He loved to get in the car and take a drive. He was always listening to country and gospel music or watching his favorite programs on the RFD channel. Don was always there to help others, making phone calls and checking in with everyone. If you were looking for something, he would make sure you had it by the end of the day.

Don is survived by his children, Mark (Rachel) Heller, Corinne (Wayne) Stevens, and Blair (Debra) Heller; grandchildren, Hannah (Caleb), Emma (Sam), Andrew, Kristian, Nathan, Katie (Andrew), Peter (Angie), Chelsey (Zachary) Brittney (Josh), and Shane (Molly); 17 great grandchildren; and special friend, Dorothy Arensdorf.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Janice in 2020; and siblings, Alice, Evelyn, Curt, Woodrow, Clifford, Muriel, Althier, Herbert, and infant brother, Leo.

Don was the best husband, dad and grandpa and will be dearly missed by all who loved him.