1927
2019
January 16, 1927 -
August 7, 2019
Colonel (Retired) Adam Sacks Heller passed from our lives on August 7, 2019, at the age of 92. He died surrounded by loved ones.
Adam was born January 16, 1927 in Trooper, PA. He was orphaned at a very young age and spent time at the Milton Hershey School in Hershey, PA.
He joined the Air Force as soon as he was able and made it a career. He retired as a Full Colonel in 1975, receiving the Legion of Merit at that time, which is given "for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievement." It is typically given to senior officers in connection with positions of leadership/command or senior positions of significant responsibility.
Adam is survived by his wife, Patti of Mount Vernon, WA; four daughters, Naomi Pollard (Illinois), Lynn Lowe (Bellevue), Alison Sutherland (Sedro-Woolley), Heidi Heller (Costa Mesa, CA); and two sons, Jim Heller (Kent) and Scott Heller (Burlington). Adam had ten grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. He will be missed by all.
A military funeral is planned for Adam on September 20th at 2:00 p.m. at Tahoma National Cemetery, Tahoma WA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
I had the privilege of working under Col. Heller at Sewart AFB in TN. As a young enlisted man, he offered wise counsel and clearly defined lines of expectations. On one occasion where several of us garnered heat from the Base Commander over a fracas at the Club, he called us all in for our side of the story. It seems he was ordered to remove a stripe or two from each of us. After hearing our side, he told us that we had just been "severely disciplined" and that he was proud but not to ever do that again. Never reported to another OIC like him after. RIP Sir!
Charlie Mason
August 17, 2019
As a fresh Lieutenant in the Air Force in 1966, I I was assigned to the 2nd Aerial Port Squadron at Sewart AFB, Tenn. Col. Heller was the commander and I learned many lessons from him during my 3 years at Sewart. I'll never forget him. He served our country well. Charlie Christian
Charles Christian
August 17, 2019
Col Heller was my first commander when I reported for active-duty to the 2nd Aerial Port Squadron at Seward Air Force Base Tennessee. My year and a half under his command taught me many positive things which enabled me to have a career in the Air Force-I will never forget Col Heller's leadership and influence on my life. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family-may he rest in peace.
Bill and Maureen Endres
August 17, 2019
While I did not have the opportunity to serve in the same unit with Col Heller, I was most fortunate to be interviewed by Col Heller in the Washington DC area back in the 70's. That interview was very candid and most beneficial to my future career path. As fellow USAF Officers, and Transporters, that interview has lasting memories. Our Love and prayers are sent for strength in the coming days. Until we can meet again.
Bruce & Janielle Coghill
August 17, 2019
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