Darius "The Wood Man" Heskett

Darius Heskett 1952-2014 Darius Heskett ("The Wood Man") lost his battle with liver disease and left this world on June 21, 2014. Darius was born on Aug. 22, 1952, in San Rafael, to Dorothy and Marvin Heskett. The family later moved to Napa. Darius was always proud to say he was in the first graduating class of Justin-Siena in 1970. He received a scholarship and attended the College of Santa Fe in New Mexico. Darius lived most of his life in Napa, but as a young man, he hitchhiked to the East Coast more than once. While in New Jersey, he met his first wife, Pat Hughes, and they had two wonderful sons, Aaron and Shane. Darius enjoyed his time back East and made many lifelong friends while there. While attending Justin-Siena, he was a standout athlete in both baseball and football. What he lacked in size he more than made up for in heart and soul. He played catcher and had such a strong arm that when he threw someone out at second an ankle was broken when hit with the ball. He went on to coach his son Aaron's team, T's and N' Tops, to the championship one year. At the time, that team was considered (by some) the Bad News Bears of the league. That was an exhilarating year. While working at Slakey Brothers as a wholesale buyer, he bought all the needed supplies for the underground construction when Rohnert Park was being built. He later worked at Raymond Vineyards, Ace Hardware on Lincoln Avenue, and A.P. Tech before he became too ill to work. His illness depleted his energy, but he was able to volunteer for a period of time at the Volunteer Center working with seniors. He later volunteered at the Wildlife Rescue Center until he could no longer physically do the tasks for the job. Even though Darius was extremely ill at the time, when his mother could no longer drive, he took her to all her numerous doctor appointments in Napa, Vallejo and Vacaville. In addition, he made sure she got to church every Sunday and on special occasions. For fun, Darius loved to cut and split firewood. He kept many a house warm in the winters throughout Napa, never failing to make sure his mother-in-law Val had enough firewood and kindling. Darius was a kind, gentle soul that never met a stranger. He loved life and lived it well. His illness sapped his strength, but his mental toughness allowed him to live through things that would make most grown men cry. He had that fighting spirit right to the bitter end. Sleep well dear Darius, you have earned your peace, and are free from pain. Darius was predeceased by his parents, Marvin and Dorothy Heskett, and sister Doreen. He is survived by his wife and soulmate of 28 years, Susan Heskett; sons Aaron (Jody) and Shane (Meredith); stepdaughters Debby Seeley and Chrissy Werris; granddaughters Michelle Seeley, Caitlynn, Cassidy, Elly and Emery Heskett; and grandsons Mitch Seeley and Austin Heskett. In addition, he leaves behind his siblings, Marvin (Gail) Heskett, Doug (Rochelle) Heskett, Denice Player, Donna (Larry) Nichols, Diane (Bob) Rosecrans, Monica (Jemy) Dinov, Duane (Debi) Heskett, and Michael (Cathy) Heskett. He also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Val Jones; and sisters-in-law Gayle Schutte (Chuck) and Terry Ornelas. In addition, he leaves behind many, many, many beloved nieces and nephews, first wife Pat Wetzel and scores of friends from sea to shining sea. At his request, no services will be held. A celebration of life will be held on Aug. 23, 2014 at a location to be announced. The family suggests if you are not an organ donor, please consider becoming one. A celebration of life will be held at the family home between 1 and 4 p.m. on Aug. 23. A tribute video will shown around 2 p.m., and light refreshments will be served. This will be an open house type event so feel free to arrive anytime between 1 and 4. Contact Darius’s wife Susan for directions. I'm Free Don't grieve for me, for now I'm Free I am following the path a higher power has laid for me. I could not stay another day, to laugh, to love, to work to play Tasks left undone must stay that way I found peace at the close of day If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss It is these things, I too will miss Be not burdened with times of sorrow I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow My life's been full, I savored such good friends, good times, a loved one's touch Perhaps my time seemed all too brief Don't lengthen it now with undue grief Lift up your hearts and share with me A higher power wanted me now, he set me free

Darius "The Wood Man" Heskett

August 22, 1952 - June 21, 2014

Navigation

Contact Us

Darius "The Wood Man" Heskett

August 22, 1952 - June 21, 2014

Obituary Notification

Navigation

Contact Us