Josephine Irene “Shorty” (Bowman) Heck, 94, passed away peacefully in her Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania home the evening of December 17, 2025.
Born August 2, 1931, in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Josephine was the daughter of Joseph Bowman and Hannah (Miller) Bowman. After high school, she attended Elizabethtown College, graduating with honors and a degree in education. She continued her studies by earning a master’s degree from Lehigh University and completed all the coursework required for a doctorate in reading education, with only her dissertation remaining.
Josephine met and married the love of her life, Harry L. Heck Sr., creating a beautiful life with him and raising their two children in the Gilbertsville home he built for her. They attended New Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church where Josephine taught Sunday school for a number of years.
Josephine chose to dedicate her life to teaching, becoming a respected and beloved educator within the Boyertown Area School District for 32 years, retiring in 1985. Her commitment to her students and her profession left a lasting impact on countless lives. She loved her career and always spoke fondly of her years teaching. She was a strong, dedicated woman to all of her children both in school and out.
Josephine also enjoyed her summers off, making memories at their beach house in Rehoboth, Delaware. She loved spending time with her family, traveling, reading, and eating out at her favorite restaurants.
Whether it be a joke, a gift, or an adventure, Josephine was always surprising people in the best possible ways. She was generous, faithful and loved God above all. She will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her laughter, and her unwavering belief in doing the right thing, no matter what. Her legacy lives on through the many students she inspired and the family she cherished.
Josephine is preceded in death by her husband, Harry L. Heck Sr. (1999), son, Harry L. Heck Jr. (2017), and daughter, Wendy J. Heck (2018).
Josephine is survived by her two grandchildren Ryan Springer (Carolyn), and Janine Springer (Michael Wright) as well as her great-grandchildren, Shyla, Keena, and Evelynn.
A public viewing is set for December 30th, from 5pm to 7pm at Catagnus Funeral Home; 1020 E. Philadelphia Ave, Gilbertsville, PA 19525.
In lieu of flowers, monetary donations may be made in Josephine's name to New Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church; 2941 Lutheran Rd, Gilbertsville, PA 19525 via their website.