Bart R. Heimsness, Sfc. (R) — age 50 of Graham, Wash. passed away Oct. 29, 2010, in his home after a courageous fight with small cell cancer.

Bart served in the U.S. Army (Sep 11, 1979 – Sep 30, 1999) and retired after 20 years as a special forces (Green Beret) medic and weapons specialist. His career in the military was exceptional and he was a highly decorated soldier, proud to wear the uniform and always ready to defend this country.

After retirement he founded non-profit organizations to help those less fortunate. He is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Patty; four Children, Trisha (Chris) Reed of Spanaway, Wash.; Ray R. Heimsness II of Taylorville, Ill.; Cody McPike of Graham, Wash.; and Audreya (Frank) Stetar of Daisy Town, Pa.; & 12 Grandchildren. Also His father and mother, Ray and Cecelia (Sis) Heimsness of Taylorville, Ill.; His brothers Brad (Pam) Heimsness of Lebanon, Tenn.; Bret (Tammy) Heimsness of Waynesville, Mo.; His sisters Marcy Stout of Taylorville, Ill.; Mitzi (John) Costello of Carlinville, Iill; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Bart has donated his body to medical research in his quest to continue to help other people. Memorial service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010, at 9:30 a.m. at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, Ill. with Fr. Alan Hunter officiating. There will be a luncheon afterwards at the Moose Lodge in Taylorville, Ill.

Memorials are preferred to St. Olaf Lutheran Church.