Thomas William Heyck, Former Northwestern Associate Dean, Dies

The following obituary is from Donnellan Family Funeral Home:

Thomas William Heyck (1938-2014) passed away at home on September 7th after a brave struggle with leukemia.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Deni Heyck, and his two children, Hunter Heyck of Norman, OK, and Shannon Heyck-Williams of Arlington, VA. He was the proud grandfather of Max Crowther-Heyck, Piper and Finnegan Heyck, and Morgan and Sam Heyck-Williams, as well as the loving father-in-law of Debbie Heyck and Jeff Heyck-Williams.

Bill was an internationally-respected scholar, and for over 40 years was professor of British history at Northwestern University, during which time he chaired the History Department, served as Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and helped found the university’s residential college system. Through various honors and awards, the university paid tribute to the diverse and integral roles Bill played within the Northwestern community as teacher, scholar, mentor, advisor, and academic innovator. The church was his second home, where he drew spiritual strength and found deep engagement. When not at church or with his family, he could be found on the golf course. He is remembered for his love of family, his moral compass, and his sharp sense of humor.

There will be a memorial service and celebration of his life at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 13th at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, 1140 Wilmette Avenue, Wilmette; a reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leukemia Research Foundation, 3520 Lake Avenue, Suite #202, Wilmette, IL 60091-1064, www.allbloodcancers.org.

Info: 847-675-1990 or www.donnellanfuneral.com

Memorial donations may be made to:
Leukemia Research Foundation, 3520 Lake Avenue, Suite #202, Wilmette, IL 60091-1064