Aloys J. Heilers

Monday, February 5, 2007

June 1, 1913-Feb. 3, 2007

Aloys Joseph Heilers, 93, died Saturday (Feb. 3, 2007), at Community Hospital in McCook.

He was born June 1, 1913, at Lawrence, to Joseph and Magdalena (Grabber) Heilers.

He came with his family to Stratton, Nebraska in 1919, and attended Stratton Public School through the 8th grade.  He then helped on the family farm, as well as other area farmers.

In 1942, he was inducted into the U.S. Army Air Force where he served his country as an airplane mechanic.  Upon receiving his honorable discharge on March 1, 1946, he returned to the Stratton area. 

He and his brother, Hank, purchased a farm south of Trenton,where they raised sheep and grain crops. Due to failing health, he moved with his brother to Willow Ridge in McCook in 1996, and to Hidden Pines in 2001.

He was a lifetime member of the American Legion -- Wm. Egle Post No. 281 of Stratton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Magdalena Heilers; two brothers, Leonard and Henry; and two sisters, Elenora Reiman and Augusta Adrijeski.

Survivors include his sisters, Leona Haller of Stratton, Rose Farschon of Slaton, Texas, and Irene Gibson of McCook; and many nieces, nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial is Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Stratton with the Revs. Sean Redmond Gary Brethour officiating.  Interment with military honors will follow services at Rose Hill Cemetery near Stratton.

Visitation is today, 3-7 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Stratton. A Rosary and Vigil for the Deceased will begin at 7 p.m.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Stratton.