Heinz E. Malert

Heinz E. Malert, 72, of Cherry, IL, formerly of Plano, IL, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 23, 2025, at his home. He was born July 7, 1952, in Sandwich, IL, the son of Ewald and Kate (Garske) Malert. He spent the last 13 years with his love, Cheryl Johnson. As a child, Heinz attended Plano Methodist Church. He had a deep enthusiasm for football, he played all through high school and cheered on his favorite team, the Bronco’s. In his younger years, Heinz and his brothers would run all over Plano and were referred to as the “Malert Boys.” Heinz proudly served in the US Army, 101st Air Borne Division Green Beret. He had an extraordinary work ethic that he praised his father for instilling in him. Heinz never stopped working, even after retirement, he kept himself busy. An avid gardener, Heinz loved being outside in nature growing all sorts of plants and fishing. Heinz had great appreciation for the great outdoors, he enjoyed traveling to Birchwood, WI to fish and watch the eagles. Being blessed with the gift of gab, Heinz never knew a stranger, just a friend he hadn’t met yet. With his kind heart and generous spirit, Heinz shared his own story of sobriety that he so proudly worked hard for and maintained for over 30 years. His hope was to encourage others to stay on the course, it is all worth it! Most of all, Heinz loved spending time with those dearest to him, especially his buddy, Rowan.

Heinz leaves behind his partner, Cheryl Johnson; his siblings, Ingrid Davis, Gary Malert, Ed (Jeannie) Malert, Rudy (Suzette) Malert, and Erich (Janice Bass) Malert; his nieces and nephews, Austen (Hannah) Davis, Lindsay (Dan) Aspengren, Mac Davis, Joey Malert, and Dakota Malert; several great nieces and nephews, numerous cousins in Germany, and his many friends; his honorary children, Jennifer (Tony) Hollenback, Matthew (Scott Rusch) Hoffman, Christopher (Jennifer) Johnson, Kevin (Aubrey) Johnson, and Kate (Levi) Ford; his seven honorary grandchildren, with another grandson expected soon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his partner, Sandie Overman, his brother, Joseph Malert, his sister-in-law, Marie Malert, and several friends including, Jimmy.

A Visitation in Heinz’ honor will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Plano, IL. Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the funeral home, with Pastor Stevan Saunders officiating. Burial will follow at Little Rock Township Cemetery in Plano, with Military Honors by the Plano American Legion. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Disabled American Veterans, www.DAV.org . For more information or to sign the online guest book, to www.EighnerFuenralHomes.com

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home
3952 Turner Ave.
Plano, IL 60545
630-552-3022