Robert Paul Heikka

Robert Paul Heikka went to be with the Lord on 10/25/20, as the result of a car accident. Bob was missing until 4/8/23, when he and his car were found by Sunshine State Sonar and Recon Dive Recovery, along with the Port Orange (Florida) Police.

Bob was born in Hancock, Michigan, on 9/23/1950 to Peter V. and Allie E. Heikka. Bob accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior while attending Gitche Gumee Bible Camp. After graduating from Dollar Bay High School in 1968, Bob attended Suomi College and Northern Michigan University.

Bob used his Business Education degree to teach in Lower Michigan and Florida, and was teaching at Creekside Middle School in Port Orange when he went missing. His family, students and friends were shocked and saddened by his sudden absence. Bob was highly respected and loved by the students and staff at Creekside.

During the entirety of his career, Bob was also active in teaching driver’s education and coaching basketball.

In 1982, Bob married the love of his life, Karen D. Hunt. Together they raised two beautiful children, Jennifer and Justin. Bob and Karen later divorced, but remained close friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, former wife Karen, brother Wallace, father in law Eric Hunt, and nephew Noah Crocker. Surviving are his dearly loved children, Jennifer (Ron) Mervine and Justin Heikka; brothers Ralph (Ivy) Heikka, Kenneth (Mary Lou) Heikka, Peter (Elizabeth) Heikka; sister Karen (Paul) Hendon; mother in law Barbara Hunt; sisters in law Patricia Heikka, Cindy Snyder, Julie (Clint) Crocker; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bob was proud of his Finnish heritage and being a Yooper! He loved visiting family and old friends in Michigan’s Copper Country, as “home” held a special place in his heart.

Bob will always be remembered for his keen sense of humor, his willingness to help others, and his love for family and friends.

Private services are being held in Daytona Beach, Florida. Special thank you to Detective Wallace and all the wonderful people who never gave up their search for Bob. Thank you to everyone for your prayers.