Bernard James Heffner, 92, Minot died on Saturday, February 25, 2012 in a Minot hospital.

Benny was born on November 20, 1919 in Hebron to Jacob and Elizabeth (Thomas) Heffner. He was reared in Hebron, Karlsrue, and Minot; and graduated from Minot High School. He was drafted into the U.S. Army on February 20, 1942 and served as a scout and rifle sharpshooter with Company F of the 129th Infantry in the Pacific Theatre. He participated in the Bougainville and Philippine campaigns and received a Purple Heart and eight other medals for his service. He received his honorable discharge on October 4, 1945 and returned to North Dakota.

Benny was once married to Harriet Hammer. He made his home in Minot where he was employed by Mackley Construction for 35 years. He then worked for Rolac Construction until he retired in 1982. He was recently a resident of Edgewood Vista.

Benny was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Moose Lodge, American Legion and was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans and Veterans of Foreign Wars, all of Minot. He was also a member of the Construction Workers Union Local #1032. He especially enjoyed hunting, fishing and was an accomplished machinist who enjoyed displaying many of his miniature engines.

Benny liked going to Schatz Truck Stop for coffee. He also enjoyed his casino runs with friends. He brought laughter to family and friends from the great stories he would tell. He enjoyed helping Kelly Rambo remodel his home. He often celebrated holidays and his birthday at the home of Sharon Walter. When he got a sweet tooth, Benny would stop by Janeta and Harvey Geyer's home.

Benny is survived by his sons: Edward "Butch" (Barbara) Heffner of Long Beach CA and Robert (Trudi) Heffner of Simi Valley CA; grandchildren: Bobby, Jimmy, Troy and Heather; sisters: Rose Bruno of Great Falls MT, Myrtle Amunson of Montana, Betty Heffner of Montana and Pauline Walker of Minot and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents; brother: Tommy, and sisters: Katie, Mary, Francis and Lena.

Funeral Service: Saturday, March 10, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. in the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Interment: North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND
Visitation: No reviewal but friends may sign a memorial register on Friday, March 9, 2012, from noon until 5:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home - Minot.