Harold "Hal" Sanford Heiser

Harold "Hal" Sanford Heiser was born May 20, 1935, in Walla Walla, Washington to Ruby Barton and Ted Wade. Wade later passed away from tuberculosis. Ruby met and married Casper Steven Heiser, who adopted Hal. Hal grew up in Walla Walla, Washington and graduated in 1953 from Walla Walla High School, where he was involved in many sports and activities. Among those included, Boy Scouts of America, Boy's Federation, Shuffle Shop, and football.

After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served as a cook and was part of the Naval choir. He had a special bond with his granddaughter Jordan Heiser, as she followed in his footsteps and joined the ranks in 2012.

Stationed in California, Hal met and married his first wife Eleanor Pellegrino, later divorcing. Together they had eight children, moving them all back to Walla Walla so Hal could help his father with his excavating business. In 1975, he obtained an AAAS from Walla Walla Community College in Mid Management. He then went on to work in and manage several restaurants in Walla Walla. He also taught Culinary Arts at Walla Walla Community College and was part owner of The Forum restaurant.

While still living in Walla Walla, he met the love of his life, Marie Manuel, they married in 1980. They eventually moved to Coos Bay, Oregon, where Hal worked on the tugboat systems as a cook, travelling up and down the Pacific Coast. In the early 90's, Hal and Marie moved to their forever home in Shelton, Washington. Hal and Marie purchased land and built a home from the ground up. Hal worked and retired from Lumberman's - Pro Builders. Hal enjoyed living in the Shelton community and was involved in the V.F.W and Kiwanis International. He surrounded himself with a group of great friends; 'The Roundtable' as they called themselves, in retirement, would meet daily for happy hour. This included good conversation, drinks and card games.

Hal enjoyed working with his hands and building all types of woodwork and construction. He was an amazing cook and enjoyed being the chef of the house. He also enjoyed golfing and being outdoors.

Hal is preceded in death by his wife Marie, and his stepdaughter Thelma. He is survived by his eight children, Dominie (George), Greta, Harold (Linda), Josh (Steve), Casper (April), William (Ginger), Alex (Terry), Allison (Keven) and stepson Rene; 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held in February.