Stephen Paul Heckman

It is with great sadness that the family of Stephen Paul Heckman announces his passing at the age of 85 on Oct. 1, 2025, in Sunny Isles Beach, Fla.
Steve was born on Dec. 27, 1939, to Orion Pauldean and Sara Ellen Studebaker Heckman in North Manchester. He had an idyllic childhood. The family welcomed his little sister, Kay, in 1949.
Steve’s first work experience was at his family’s business, Heckman Bindery. After graduating from North Manchester High School, he attended Indiana University, where he majored in business. While in college, he pledged Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, sang with the Singing Hoosiers and participated in ROTC.
After graduating, Steve joined the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of second lieutenant. He was proud of his service and often said it provided him with valuable life experience.
In 1963, Steve joined his father at Heckman Bindery, fulfilling a lifelong dream. In 1971, he married the love of his life, Paula Diane Herron, in her hometown of Centerville, Tenn. They settled on Winona Lake in Warsaw, where they raised their two sons, James Paul and Dean Stephen.
Heckman Bindery grew from a home workshop in 1931 to the largest library book bindery in America, serving the Library of Congress, major universities, colleges, schools and libraries nationwide. In 1972, Steve became president of Heckman Bindery. For over four decades, Steve guided the business with innovation and integrity, keeping it successful and relevant through the changing times.
Steve cherished family time, especially Christmas and the Fourth of July. He loved living on the lake where boating, water skiing and family gatherings were part of life. An avid traveler, Steve and Paula visited all seven continents. He was also a passionate motorcyclist, taking long adventures across the U.S. and Europe.
Steve and Paula began spending winters in Florida while still working, owning homes in Fort Myers and Naples before settling in Sunny Isles Beach.
Those who knew Steve will remember his sense of humor, his lovable grin, and the warmth he brought to every gathering. He lived life fully and laughed often.
Steve is survived by his beloved wife Paula Heckman of Sunny Isles Beach, Fla.; son, Jim Heckman and wife Vicki, of Fort Wayne, along with their children, Carson and Caitlyn; son, Dean Heckman, of Nashville, Tenn.; sister, Kay Heckman Hervey and husband Tom, of Carmel; sister-in-law, Lee Ann Herron, of Sunny Isles Beach, Fla.; and brother-in-law, Jim “Uncle Jimmy” Herron and wife Jane of Centerville, Tenn.
These family members were Steve’s inner circle, sharing a lifetime of laughter, love and adventure. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
In keeping with Steve’s wishes, there will be no formal service.
The family asks that you remember him in your own way or any memorial donations may be made to North Manchester Center for History, 122 E. Main St., North Manchester, IN 46962, nmhistory@cinergymetro.net.