Michael Glen Heinz

Ret. ENCM. Michael Glen Heinz of Glen St. Mary passed away Monday, August 5, 2024 at the Mayo Clinic at the age of 78. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on March 11, 1946, Michael was the son of Gustav and Helen (Ward) Heinz. ENCM. Heinz dedicated thirty years of active service to the United States Navy, serving in Vietnam and aboard the oiler ship, the USS Cimmaron. His earlier years in the Navy included duties as a diver. His Navy career allowed he and his family to see much of the world, being stationed in places such as Hawaii.

Outside of decorated military career, Mr. Heinz had several hobbies. He was an avid biker for many years. His biggest passion, however, was raising and showing orchids. A member of the Jacksonville Orchid Society and a past President of the St. Augustine Orchid Society, Michael meticulously cared for his plants for many years and attended countless shows, winning many awards.

He was preceded in death by his father.

He leaves behind to cherish years of memories, his wife of fifty-two years: Katherine "Kaycee" Heinz of Glen St. Mary; daughters: Karlie Heinz of Lake City and Jennifer Heinz of Glen St. Mary; grandchildren: Damian Scalf of Tallahassee and Leo Cottrell of Orange Park; mother: Helen Heinz; siblings: Karl (Marie) Heinz of Bonita, California, Jeffrey Heinz of Gulf Breeze, and Holly (Robert) Jackson of Stuart; his beloved cats: Dougal, Thor, and Lulu; as well as extended family members and close friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 10, 2024 in the chapel of Forbes Funeral Home at 1:00 PM with refreshments to follow. Final memorialization will be by cremation.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.

The staff of Forbes Funeral Home are honored to assist the family with the arrangements. 409 West Macclenny Avenue, Macclenny, Florida 32063 “With Your Family In Mind”. (904) 259-4600 . Please leave your condolences for the family in the online guestbook at www.forbesfuneralhome.net.