Robert Downing Heckman was born November 9, 1911 in Opportunity, Nebraska to John Joseph and Daisy Lee (Downing) Heckman. He passed from this life Monday, November 24; 2004, at the age of 93.

Mr. Heckman graduated from Gotebo, OK High School before serving in the U.S. Army during World War II.

He married his childhood sweetheart, Doris May Clark, March 14, 1941.

He received his degree from the University of Tulsa in 1950. Mr. Heckman worked in private practice as a Piano Instructor and as an Organist for Memorial Christian Church for over 50 years. More recently he served as an Organist for Rogers Heights Christian Church.

Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Heckman was a member and held many offices including President of the Tulsa Accredited Music Teachers Association. He was also a member of the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association, National Association of Music Teachers; National Guild of Piano Teachers and the National Guild of Organists. He served as Executive Director of ConcerTime Chamber Music Society (now known as Chamber Music Tulsa) for 30 years and was a member of the Hyechka Club of Tulsa for 50 years.

He is survived by: his wife of 63 years, Doris, of the home; daughters and sons-in law, Rise and Marvin Reub of Olathe, KS and Constance and Richard Carver of Rapid City, SD; brother, John Heckman of Denver, CO; grandchildren, Ryan Reid, Erin Elliott and Amanda Reub; greatgrandchildren, Andrew, Kyle and Sarah Reid, Adria and Benjamin Elliott; and numerous nieces and nephews.