Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Dear Heckman family,
Joanne was a treasure as I first knew her as Mary’s youngest sister, in the 60’s, when Mary & I became great friends at MIA. I remember attending your famous Christmas Eve parties with ALL of you present! Such a warm & caring family!
I next was reunited with Joanne when she hoping the Special Olympics MidState basketball team
With my nephew Kenny. Peter & Rose & I had the pleasure of coaching such a wonderful group! I still smile thinking back to those great times!!
Joanne’s goal was to be able to show overhand & make the shot!! She worked at it and worked at it! It was a joy to be with her!
Another super memory is when I brought in Ed Generali, the state championship BB coach from Holy Cross in Wtby, who conducted a coaches training using our team to demonstrate. Ed is a tall handsome man and as soon as he said he would divide us into two squads for a demo, Joanne ran up and put her arms around his legs( that us all that she could reach) and said,”I want to be on YOUR team!” Of course she did!
I enjoyed taking her occasionally to UConn games at the Civic Center! One time the camera showed her joyous face on the center scoreboard and she got so excited, asked if her mother could see her on tv at home. “ Of course she can, “ I said. “ You are on tv!!”
Joanne was a treasure that many of us got to share! I am so sorry for your loss. Her memories live on in our hearts. I wish I was in CT to attend. My sympathies to all of your family.
