On Sunday, March 31st, Peter passed away surrounded by loving family and friends. Treasured son of Joseph and Anna Heck, he was born in Germany on July 27, 1939.

As, a boy, Peter had dreamed of coming to the United States, and in 1957 this became reality when at the age of 18 he came across the Atlantic by ship, on his own, to start a new life. Proud of his German heritage, upon arrival in Milwaukee, Peter did not waste much time in joining a Waltzing Club. In those early years you could find young Peter working his way across the dance floor, waltzing into the hearts of many.

Peter served in the United States Army Reserves at the Army Disciplinary Barracks on Silver Spring Drive in the 878th Ordinance Company GAS (general automotive support) from 1961 to 1967 and became a US citizen in 1994.

He settled down at Milwaukee Malleable, where he started out sweeping floors, and worked his way up to Superintendent. He took great pride in his work and became a respected and valuable member of the American Foundrymen's Society. After his retirement he continued his contributions to the foundry industry, taking every chance he could to mentor others. If you had a good heart and a strong work ethic, Peter always had a place for you!

In 1962 he married Virginia Lago, and together with daughters Ingrid and Monica, and son Joseph, they spent many vacations at the cabin that he built up north, where he enjoyed fishing, water skiing, snowmobiling and evenings around a campfire. Horses first joined the family in 1982, when Monica received a pony, Little Darlin. The pony was followed by Gambler, a Quarter Horse; Chester, a Belgian cross for Peter to ride; and Bunny, a beautiful black and white Paint.

In 1989, Peter married Lisa Leonard, and the two began Breezewood Farm. At Breezewood, Peter was able to make another dream come true, to breed and show the golden Haflinger horses he had known as a child in Germany. His grandfather had used Haflingers to farm with, and when Peter and Lisa started breeding them, they were still considered rare in the United States. As a founding member of the Haflinger Owners of Wisconsin, he pursued his passion for driving. Peter competed around the country, and took part in many prestigious events, including the World Equestrian Games, Breyer Fest, and Milwaukee's own Great Circus Parade.

A devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, brother, and loyal friend, he would not hesitate to help someone in need. His family is grateful for his love and guidance. We all are honored to have known him and will forever keep him in our hearts. Peter is survived by his wife, Lisa Leonard Heck; daughters Ingrid (Joel) Clark and Monica (Glenn) Ford and his son, Joseph Heck; his grandchildren, Amanda Salla, Amber Salla, Jordin (Ash) Ford, Erica Clark and Jasmyn Ford. Great grandchildren Summer, Xavier, Isabella, Isaac, Kayla, and Ziaire. Brothers Joseph Heck and Burkhart Heck, and many more cherished nephews, nieces, and very dear friends. Peter is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Anna Heck.

Services will be held at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin 53005, on April 28, 2019 at 1:30 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life. In Lieu of flowers, contributions to AngelsGrace Hospice ProHealth Care Foundation, 725 American Avenue, Waukesha, Wisconsin 53188, are appreciated.