Sunday, June 4, 2023
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Heartfelt sympathy to Ana, Patricia, Anthony and entire Heckmann family.
Jerry was my best friend since Canisius days 1964-68 — a most treasured compadre in a lifetime of shared experiences.
Conversations with him were always engaging and amusing. He had such a quick wit and sharp intellect informed by wide reading in history and politics. He was at the center of circle of bohemian and artistic friends, and it was my good fortune to be included.
We shared a special interest in learning German and studying German history and culture. In the summer of 1966 we both participated in an exchange program sponsored by the German government which involved working in a German factory. We earned enough money to have a three week expedition afterwards riding bicycles from the Bavarian Alps north along the Rhein ending up in Brussels, staying in youth hostels along the way.
Jerry and I exchanged regular letters and visits every year since then during all the stages of our subsequent lives. Nobody writes with more verve and at greater length than Jerry! His reading recommendations and book gifts have kept me up-to-date on the critical philosophical issues we have long discussed.
Jerry's artistic talent was widely recognized. An awesome caricature he drew at my request of renowned political philosopher Herbert Marcuse enhanced the cover of an academic book I published some years ago. Other sketches having cutting-edge political insights have enlivened the interiors of other volumes as well. I am especially grateful to have worked with Jerry in such a partnership.
Such a genial and generous spirit!. I miss him greatly!
