Ruth P. Heckman, 81 of Allegan, died Thursday, July 3, 2003 at the Allegan General Hospital. Mrs. Heckman was born November 29, 1921 in Allegan, MI t he daughter of L.Z. and Rose (Lorberg) Hending. Surviving are 6 children and their spouses, Sally & Ted McLaughlin of Allegan, Bill Jr. & Sharon Heckman of Allegan, Fred & Cheryl Heckman of Kalamazoo, Sandy Farrer of Allegan, Dan & Mary Jo Heckman of Plainwell, Bob & Pamela Heckman of Fennville; 13 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; 1 great great granddaughter; several nieces and nephews; and a special friend, April. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill in 1986, 2 sisters, Lucille Rice and Esther Smith, 1 brother, Merlin Hending. Cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5-7 pm at the Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, where a Memorial Service will be held at 7:00 pm. Pastor Paul Hays officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Wings of Hope Hospice.