Michael Lynn Heidecker, 54, died June 9, 2009, in Billings, Mont.

He was born Sept. 19, 1954, in Crete, Neb., the son of Earl D. and Mary Ann (Vilda) Heidecker. Mike graduated from Beatrice High School in 1973. He lived at Cortland on a farm and Lincoln, Neb., before moving to Billings in the early 1980s. Mike’s working career involved design fabrications at Lincoln Steel, Lincoln, Neb., and also farmed at Cortland, Neb. Mike spent many years long-haul trucking for Hinman Trucking of Billings. He also was very creative and designed and produced one-of-a-kind iron works. Mike’s interests included blacksmithing, hockey and collecting model tractors.

Mike is survived by his son, Kane and special friend Emily Stroebe of Portland, Ore.; brother, Craig Heidecker of Cortland, Neb.; sister, Samie Dozor of Lewes, Del.; mother, Mary Heidecker of Beatrice, Neb.; special friend, Valerie Bradley of Billings; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father in 1996.

Memorial services were held 1 p.m. Monday, June 15, at Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings, with a reception following. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com.