Timothy James Heelan

Timothy James Heelan, age 68, of North Mankato, died Monday, July 25, 2022 at his home.

Visitation will be held from 3-5pm, Thursday, July 28, 2022 at Northview ~ North Mankato Mortuary. Celebration of Tim’s Life will begin at 5pm at Northview led by Rev. Joe Fogal and a meal will follow. Please share a memory of Tim with his family and view his video tribute online at www.mankatomortuary.com.

Tim, the youngest of four children, was born February 5, 1954 in Madelia to John and Ruth (McNamara) Heelan. From an early age, music was a big part of Tim’s life. He learned to play the drums in high school and later played in bands, Fast Forward and Billy and the Bangers. He graduated from Loyola High School in 1972. After graduation, Tim’s adventurous spirit led him on a road trip to Kodiak Island in Alaska. He quickly realized he wanted to marry his then girlfriend, Vickey Shamp. They were married in 1976 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in North Mankato. Tim and Vickey were blessed with two children, Grady and Gretchen. He was a great husband and father who taught the value of working hard and treasuring time with family and friends. He enjoyed duck hunting, making people laugh, playing music, telling stories, and building cabins on Swan Lake. Tim had many talents and put his heart and soul into everything he did – from building cradles for his kids to landscaping with rock structures, waterfalls, and flower beds. He will be deeply missed by so many dear friends, near and far.

Tim volunteered with the North Mankato Fire Department for 20 years before retirement. His career in sales and marketing allowed him to help businesses innovate using his product lines, while also establishing great relationships.

Tim is survived by his son, Grady Heelan of North Mankato; daughter, Gretchen (Matthew) Schulz of Mankato; grandchildren, Charlie and William Schulz; former wife, Vickey Heelan; siblings, Cynthia Heelan of St. Paul, Michael (Rebecca) Heelan of St. Paul, and Jennifer (Denny) Connolly of North Mankato; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.