John Patrick Heenan

March 17, 1944 – March 16, 2025 

John Patrick Heenan, a lifelong resident of Live Oak, CA, passed away on March 16, 2025, at the age of 80 years.

Born to Helen and Jack Heenan in Yuba City, CA, John grew up on the family farm, where he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity.

He attended Live Oak schools, graduating from Live Oak High School in 1962, and later attended Yuba College.

An adventurous spirit, he traveled through Europe at 18 before returning home to continue his family's farming legacy. 

In 1966, John completed Basic Training at Fort Ord as a member of the U.S. Army National Guard. 

He was a proud member of the Live Oak Kiwanis, a brother in the Knights of Columbus, and a lifelong member of the Yuba Sutter Historical Society, among numerous other organizations.

With a remarkable memory for local history, he could recall the evolution of businesses, buildings, and families throughout the region.

John was known for his warm personality, always greeting friends and strangers alike with a handshake, a smile, and his signature two-finger wave. 

He was a man of quiet strength and generosity, always willing to lend a hand. His love for adventure led him to raft the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and travel to Africa, where he helped the construction of church buildings.

In 1982, John married Dorothy "Dot" Heenan, gaining not just a wife, but an extended family. He embraced his role as a dad to Kathy, Kent, Craig, and Brad with patience, kindness, and unwavering support. 

John was preceded in death by his father, Jack Heenan; his mother, Helen Heenan; and his grandson, Hayden Graves.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Heenan; his brother, Thomas Heenan (Deborah); his children, Kathy Graves, Kent Harwood (Dawnita), Craig Harwood (Adrienne), and Bradley Harwood (Cara); as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. 

Services will be held Thursday, April 3, 2025. A public viewing will be held from 4 PM to 5 PM, followed by a Rosary from 5 PM to 6 PM at Ullrey Memorial Chapel, 817 Almond St., Yuba City, CA.

Friday, April 4, 2025, a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1560 Hazel St., Gridley, CA, at 11 AM, under the direction of Rev. Roland B. Ramirez. 

Immediately following, a procession will lead to his final resting place at Live Oak Cemetery, 3545 Pennington Rd., Live Oak, CA.

After the burial, family and friends are invited to a reception in Live Oak, CA, details to be announced, to share memories, offer support, and continue honoring his life together. 

Services are under the direction of Ullrey Memorial Chapel, 817 Almond St. Yuba City, CA.

Flowers may be sent there, or charitable donations may be made in John's memory to St., Jude Children's Hospital.