Kathy Marie Heckel

Kathy Marie Heckel, born December 14, 1950, in Sinton, Texas, passed away on November 16,
2025.
She was the beloved daughter of Selma and Helmer Fahrenthold.
Kathy graduated from Southside High School, class of 1969. She later married the love of her
life, Charles William Heckel, and together they welcomed their son, William Shane Heckel.
Kathy was a strong, hardworking woman whose devotion to her family was unwavering. She
was her son’s and granddaughter’s biggest supporter, cheering them on in all things- especially
in their shared passion for racing. She led the family with a heart full of pride, determination, and
fierce love.
Kathy had a deep love for sports and rarely missed an Astros or Texans game. She also loved a
good competition and never wavered in her determination to dominate at family game night. Her
presence, encouragement, humor, and fiery spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and
loved her.
She is survived by her son Shane Heckel and daughter-in-law Angie Heckel, her granddaughter
Brooke Furlong, her sister Sherry Fahrenthold, and her brother Michael Fahrenthold.
A memorial service honoring Kathy’s life will be held at Deer Park Funeral Directors on
November 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Racers for Christ (RFC) or the Drag Racing
Association of Women (DRAW).

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