December 17, 1941 – May 5, 2025
Joseph M. Heister, loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend
Olean- Joseph M. Heister, of Olean, passed away Monday, May 5, 2025, at the Cuba Skilled Nursing Facility surrounded by his loving family after a short illness.
Joe was born in Olean on December 17, 1941, the son of the late John and Marion Powers Heister. On April 11, 1964, he married the love of his life, the former Sandra Fitzmaurice, who survives.
He graduated from Olean High School in 1960 and joined the United States Army in 1964. He was a member of the Army Honor Guard in Washington, D.C. After leaving the Army, Joe worked for Johnson Printing and Cutco Cutlery, retiring from Cutco after 27 years as the Manufacturing Business Unit Manager. His favorite pastimes, other than spending time with family and friends, were hunting, fishing, and golfing with friends. Joe was a longtime Salvation Army volunteer and parishioner of the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels Church. Joe and Sandy recently celebrated their 61st anniversary. They enjoyed their many travels to Arizona, Alaska, and Mexico.
Joe is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sandra; his three sons, Mark (Kim), Gregory (Laura), and Joseph (Meghan); his grandchildren, Ciara, Calista, Marina, Madeline, Daniel, Sophia and Isabella; several nieces and nephews; and lifetime friend, John Walsh.
He was predeceased by his parents, John and Marion; his sisters, Ann Heister and Mary Basnight; and two brothers-in-law, Daniel Fitzmaurice and William Russo.
A memorial service will be held at a date and time to be announced.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, 202 S. Union, Olean, NY 14760, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St, Olean.
Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com
