John Earl Heine

John Earl Heine, 80, of Pewaukee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at Evin of Oconomowoc, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on January 21, 1946, in Janesville, Wisconsin, John was the son of Emroy and Viola Heine. He grew up in Janesville, attended St. Paul’s Lutheran School, and graduated from Craig High School in 1964. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from UW-Whitewater, working nights in the bakery at Woodman’s Supermarket while completing his studies. John then began a distinguished 54-year career as a life insurance agent with New York Life Insurance Company, during which he received numerous prestigious NYLIC sales awards.

While in college, John married Donna Scharine. Their 59-year marriage was marked by deep devotion as they built a life in Janesville and raised their two daughters, Richelle and Nicole. In 2001, they moved to Pewaukee to be closer to family and to help care for their grandchildren. John cherished time with his family and friends. He was an active member of the Janesville Country Club for many years and found joy in golfing, skiing, tending to his yard, playing bridge, attending Badger and Packer football games, and traveling. In his later years, he especially treasured watching his grandchildren participate in their various activities.

John was a loving and dedicated husband and father who will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife Donna, daughters Richelle (Scott) Naze of Oconomowoc and Nicole (Kraig) Bauman of Ripon, grandchildren Lauren and Michael Naze, Karsyn and Marshall Bauman, and Caitlin (Nick) Niggemeier, one great-grandson, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother LaVern Heine, and sister Margaret Mortensen.