On Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012, Christopher James Hecknauer, 32, of Williamsport, was declared cancer free by his Lord and Savior! Chris' final days were spent at The Gatehouse with loved ones by his side.
Chris was born on Sept. 30, 1980, in Muncy, Pa., to James and Joanne (Kile) Hecknauer, Cogan Station. Chris was a 1999 graduate of Williamsport Area High School and a 2001 graduate of Antonelli Institute, Glenside, Pa., where he received an associate degree in photography.
Chris married Stephanie (Smith) Hecknauer on Oct. 8, 2005, at Fairlawn Community Church, Cogan Station. Anyone who met these two could not deny that God created them for each other. Chris and Steph were the proud parents of two Rottweilers, Bad Bad Leroy Brown, 12 and Eva Marie, 6.
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Christopher James Hecknauer
Chris' employers included Weis Market, Williamsport; Wal-Mart, Montoursville; Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, Montoursville; and Integrity Building Systems, Milton.
Some of Chris' favorite activities were rooting for the Phillies, traveling, going to car shows, hunting, watching rodeos and listening to music. He had a love for ice cream, buying clothes and seeing how long he could grow his beard. Chris was proud to be able to watch his three nieces grow into beautiful young ladies that prayed for him continuously. He was a member of Fairlawn Community Church, Cogan Station.
Chris is survived by his wife, Stephanie (Smith) Hecknauer, Williamsport; parents, James and Joanne (Kile) Hecknauer, Cogan Station; paternal grandmother, Florence (Coney) Hecknauer, Muncy; maternal grandparents, Robert and Jean (Robbins) Kile, Hughesville; in-laws, Daniel and Cindy (Ranck) Smith Sr., Montgomery; brothers-in-law, Daniel Smith Jr., Allenwood and Corey (Amanda) Smith, Williamsport; nieces, Arlie Kay, Emily Rose and Sydney Marie Smith; several loving aunts, uncles and cousins; as well as amazing friends, Pastor Steve Halstead, Williamsport, Matt Mitchley, Ashburn, Va., Jared Polin, Philadelphia, and Greg Cazillo, Downingtown.
Chris is predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Carl Hecknauer Sr.; great-grandparents; an aunt and an uncle.
Chris' Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held on Thursday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. at Fairlawn Community Church, 353 Pleasant Hill Road, Cogan Station, with Pastor Steve Cutter and Pastor Steve Halstead officiating. This event is to celebrate the amazing life that Chris lived. Please come wearing something you think Chris would enjoy - Phillies gear, camo or more traditional attire if you prefer. Contact the church at 570-494-0414 with any questions.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Fairlawn Community Church, c/o Stephanie Hecknauer, 353 Pleasant Hill Road, Cogan Station, PA 17728 to help with expenses.
A heart felt thank you goes out to the numerous people who have supported and prayed for Chris over the years, his Oncologist Dr. Khalil, the staff at the Geisinger Knapper Clinic and BP8, and the amazing people at The Gatehouse.
Chris fought his battle with cancer for almost six years. The strength and courage he showed was unbelievable. He was a true warrior. Through it all, he clung to his faith, family and always kept his sense of humor. He hopes that you do the same.
