Roberts, Wisconsin - Michael ("Mike"), age 82, passed away January 21st 2026 at The Homestead apartments in Roberts, Wisconsin.

He was born August 23rd, 1943 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The firstborn son to Bette, Mike was eventually adopted by his father Ken Heinz when Ken and Bette married at the conclusion of WW2.

Mike spent much of his career as a journalist, working as a copy editor for preeminent newspapers such as the Sacramento Bee, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Chicago Tribune, and spent much of his career at the Minneapolis Star Tribune. He had a talent for writing headlines and thrived under nightly deadline pressure. He eventually left journalism to become a professor at institutions like Lockhaven, Stephens, Marquette, and concluded his career at Stout in Menomonie, WI. He enjoyed playing guitar and was a renowned amateur botanist.

In addition to his parents, Ken & Bette Heinz, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Diane Manas; brothers, Pete, Jeff, and Doug; and sister, Peggy.

He is survived by his second wife, Alice Journey; son, Josh Journey-Heinz; daughters, Stephanie Lee and Amy Rossi; brother, Bob Heinz; granddaughters, Jennifer, Brittany, Jada, Julia, and Alaina; great-grandkids, Trevor, Tyler, Dallis, Corben; and son-in-law, Sam.

There is no scheduled service at this time, but please contact Josh Journey-Heinz on Facebook if you'd like to connect about honoring Mike.