Dirk Heeringa

Dirk “Dick” Heeringa passed from this world on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at the Christian Homestead in Waupun.

Dick was born in the Netherlands in 1934. At age 13, he immigrated to the U.S. with his parents and siblings. They settled in the Sheboygan area and later near Waupun. In 1955, he enlisted in the Army. At one point he was stationed in Washington, D.C., where he enjoyed his duties with the Honor Guard. When his term was done, he worked for Verhage Implement, which soon became Waupun Equipment, and he became a co-owner. During all of his years at work he enjoyed being of assistance to many area farmers.

During this time he met and married his wife of 66 years, Barbara Verhage. He became a devoted father of two boys, Michael and Joe.

Loving the outdoors, as he did, he could often be found hunting, fishing, golfing, playing softball, coaching Little League, or spending time at his “hobby farm.” Many family vacations were spent at Tuttle Lake.

He was a faithful member of 1st CRC where he served on the church council and as a youth leader. He enjoyed the choir and looked forward to his time spent among his church family. Kids always had a special place in his heart and he would bring a smile to their faces when he passed out candy and chiclets. This made him known as “the Chiclet-Man.”

His memory will live on in the hearts of friends and family for his love, kindness, sense of humor, and faith in God.

Dick is survived by his wife, Barb Heeringa; sons, Michael Heeringa and Joe (Amber) Heeringa; grandchildren, Kelli (Ben) Polum, Benjamin, Eli, Ava (fiancé, Ayden Enders), and Brackston; great-grandchildren, Micah and Theodore; brothers, Sam and Richard; and further survived by many in-laws, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law; sister, Sylvia; brothers, Andy, Norman, Henry, and William; and many in-laws and other relatives.

Visitation for Dick will take place on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Werner Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Visitation will also take place on Friday, February 27, 2026 at First Christian Reformed Church in Waupun from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Greg Schuringa officiating. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Christian Homestead in Waupun.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dick's name may be directed to Badgerland Youth for Christ.