Gale Bennett Heding, 74, of Wellsville, lost his battle with aggressive cancer at 10:38 p.m. Wednesday, December 25, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in his home.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at the Grace Lutheran Fellowship Hall in Wellsville.

Gale was born November 16, 1950, in Hannibal. He was the son of Howard and Emily (Harper) Heding. He Married Diana Mumm on August 15, 1975, in St. Louis.

Gale attended High School at Hickman High in Columbia, MO.  He enlisted and served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam era.  As a lifelong learner, Gale attended the University of Missouri in pursuit of a teaching degree and Northeast Missouri State University in Kirksville where he pursued a degree in Theatrical Arts.  Throughout his lifetime Gale held many jobs, primarily in the automative industry.  His mechanical inclination and attention to detail served him well, his quick wit and impeccable timing with jokes was surpassed by none.  Later in life, Gale obtained an associate's degree in Automation & Robotics Technology.  Gale retired from AZZ/Central Electric in 2015.

Outside of work, Gale was an avid outdoorsman and nature lover.  He shared his passion with his family and included them in his many adventures.  He was always ready for a hunting, camping or fishing trip. Gale was a marksman and accomplished competitive archer, but nothing compared to his love for rides on his Harley Davidson(s). Gale was creative and artistic.  He had a knack for photography and enjoyed dabbling in many creative pursuits ranging from theatrical makeup to leather crafting - he was a true craftsman in everything he did.

Gale was a proud Eagle Scout and as an adult, a Troop Leader.  He inspired many young scouts with his wisdom and guidance. Gale enjoyed sharing his skills and knowledge with others to help them achieve success. He had endless stories; many we may never have heard.  Cherished memories will include his many talents, his distinctive laugh, his love for adventure, and his steadfast commitment to his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife Diana; three daughters Kristina Romaker (David) of Wellsville, Demian Cook of Wellsville, and Heather Heding of Wellsville; three sisters, Wanda Bradley of Hannibal, Teresa Bates of Hannibal, and Lee Mayfield of Hannibal; nine grandchildren, Jeanice Williams (Kelly) of Hallsville, Joshua Romaker (Meg Geisler) of Wellsville, Bradley Romaker (Shannon) of Ridgecrest, California, Julia Cook of Wellsville, Andrea Cook of Columbia, Ryan Cook of Wellsville, Marli Yelton of Wellsville, Ariana Cole of Wellsville, and Keigan Hall of Wellsville; thirteen great grandchildren, Willow, Oliver, Jett, Atticus, Gideon Williams, Ava Geisler, Addy McCosh, Adalynn, Asher and Amelia Romaker, Calum Romaker, Jack and Karmen Miller; and numerous other extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Mike Heding.

The family suggests memorial gifts to Bikers Against Child Abuse – Mid MO Chapter or Every Childs Hope. They may be sent in care of Myers Funeral Home, 203 E. Bates Street, Wellsville, MO 63384.