Michael Ward Heintz, 73, was called to Heaven on March 30, 2020, following a brief battle with cancer. He was born on August 8, 1946 in Sumter, S.C., to the late EN “Gabe” Heintz and Elmere Lunsford Heintz of Statesville.
A graduate of Celeste Henkel High School, he was a lifetime and active member of Beulah Baptist Church, where he served as Sunday School director, teacher, and deacon. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. His love of cars and racing led him to start Heintz Brothers Automotive with his brother, Steve, in the mid-1970s, where he worked until his death. He and Steve were inducted into the N.C. Drag Racing Hall of Fame in 2013. He was well known for his knowledge in engine building and his expertise in the field.
Mike was a humble man of integrity that never met a stranger and prided himself in always helping others and doing things the right way. He loved his community and church and was forever willing to serve where needed. He coached area youth in basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer, well beyond the years his own children were active in the sports. He served on the Iredell County Recreation Advisory Committee for over 17 years and coached varsity soccer at West Iredell High School for six years. Drawing on his early experience as a brick mason, he helped build the baseball stadium stands at West as well as expanded the present soccer practice field, which bears his name.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Cynthia Sloan Heintz, of Statesville; children, Jennifer Heintz (Shann Rushing) of Raleigh and David Heintz of Statesville; grandchildren, Jackson and Sloane Attride and Colin and Caroline Rushing, all of Raleigh; brother, Steve (Shirley); sister-in-law, Linda Armstrong; nephews, Scott Heintz, Tony Armstrong (Jenny), Greg Armstrong (Gina); nieces, Stephanie Wood (Richard) and Sarah Morrow (Phillip); and 12 great nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother in law, Ted Armstrong, and his parents-in-law, Elree and Grace Sherrill Sloan.
Troutman Funeral Home is handling the private, graveside services on Thursday, April 2, 2020. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Beulah Baptist Church or Warrior Goal Club c/o West Iredell High School. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.troutmanfuneralhome.com.
Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family.