Worcester -

Edward G. Heirtzler Sr. passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on April 15, 2015 at Harrington Hospital in Southbridge. He was 85 years old. He leaves behind his daughter, Gay Michaeles and partner Dana Dragon of Northborough; his son Edward Heirtzler Jr. of NC; his daughter in law, Ms. Janet Beers of Westport, CT; and son Mark Heirtzler of Norwalk Ct., eight grandchildren; Marissa Michaeles, Emily Michaeles, Aaron Heirtzler, Brian Heirtzler, Jamie Heirtzler, Carrie Heirtzler-Gallagher, Kimberly Heirtzler-Barna, and Abby Heirtzler; four great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Ronald Heirtzler and wife Diane of Charlton; Robert Heirtzler and wife Edna of Milbridge, ME; his uncle, Lewis Heirtzler and wife Teresa of Worcester; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved grand-nephew, Michael Mancini of Oxford. Born in Baltimore, MD, and raised in Worcester, he was the son of Edward and Malvina (Rocheford) Heirtzler. Ed proudly served in the Marine Corps during the Korean war.

He resided in Westport, CT for 45 years, moved back to Northborough in 2004 ultimately returning to his hometown of Worcester three years ago.

"Mr. H" was a certified gemologist and owned and operated Playhouse Jewelers in Westport for many years until his retirement in 2000. Mr. Heirtzler was a coin collector, an animal lover and a longtime member of the Westport Kiwanis Club. He will be remembered most famously perhaps as a devout New York Yankees fan despite living in hostile territory… Red Sox Nation.

Calling hours will be held Saturday, April 25, 2015 from 1-3 p.m. in Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St. Northborough, followed by reflections and military honors. Burial will take place at a later date in MA National Cemetery, Bourne. Donations to the MSPCA may be made in his memory in lieu of flowers. To share a memory or offer the family a condolence, please visit www.haysfuneralhome.com