Now & Then, 05/28/2026

Special to Market Messenger

His is a story of courage and faith.
For those who don’t know Jeff Heffernon, 63, his career was in law enforcement. He worked at the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department from 1986-1989. The majority of his career was with the Shawano City Police Department where he served as an officer, school liaison officer, Lieutenant, and Captain.
Jeff and his lovely wife Deb have a son, daughter, and four grandchildren. Their daughter Holly is following in her father’s footsteps, serving as deputy sheriff for Lincoln County. Holly’s husband Sam is a Lincoln County detective.
Captain Heffernon has had a series of health issues. In November 2023, he had a heart attack. In December 2023, he had a stroke. In July 2024, he developed a blood clot in his heart. In December 2025, Jeff had an MRI after reporting progressive stroke symptoms.
In April 2026 he was having difficulty with his speech and walking. He thought his symptoms were the aftermath of his stroke.
The Heffernons winter in Florida where they kayak, bicycle, hike and play pickleball. In April, they headed back to Shawano. Jeff felt well enough to drive. When they returned home, they went to his scheduled doctor’s appointment. It was then that Dr. Savage gave them the news; Jeff has ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). He has Bulbar Onset ALS, a very aggressive form of ALS.
Jeff commented, “It is hard to believe I have lived through all of that, but hey, here I am, still upright. My weight is about the same, blood pressure great, and my A1C is still below the diabetic level. I recently saw my dentist and my dermatologist, zero signs of skin cancer, and no cavities. Basically, I am possibly the healthiest 63-year-old American male you know, who has a terminal illness.”
Jeff added, “Last week they found a new blood clot in my heart. Hopefully they will be able to dissolve it by adjusting my blood thinners. My breathing and my mind have not been affected.” He added, “It is good to be as sharp as a bowling ball.”
Jeff commented, “I have received a two-minute warning…but I can’t see the time limit.”
Deb said, “God is our strength. Several families with ALS have reached out to us. We are so grateful for their help and support. This is something no one thinks will happen to them, but we take one day at a time.”
Deb added, “Jeff has been showing me how to do some of the jobs I always called ‘his jobs.’ I am learning how to take care of the lawn mower, the yard and the car. He is preparing me for the time he is unable to do the things he enjoyed doing.”
As we visited, Deb would sometimes have to tell me what Jeff was saying. He has difficulty with his speech, but he has not lost his sense of humor. Jeff said, “We need more silly in the world. People need to laugh and have fun.” Deb said, “His favorite joke is, ‘Why does Tiger Woods wear two pairs of socks? In case he had a hole in one.’
Jeff’s faith in God is his strength. He prays often and appreciates the prayers of others. He said, “I am ready for whatever comes next.” He added, “I am not afraid, God is with me.”
I had the pleasure of getting to know Jeff when I was with the city. I enjoyed it when he came to my office to visit. I learned Jeff set the bar quite high. He had high expectations for himself and also for those who reported to him. I considered him to be somewhat of a perfectionist and his own worst critic.
Jeff has a quick wit, sometimes with a little added sarcasm. During our conversations, Jeff would often mention his wife Deb. His love for his family was apparent.
Former police officer Jody Johnson recalls starting her career in law enforcement with Jeff as her first partner (1995). Jody commented, “When I was feeling overwhelmed, he was always there for me, my true wingman. We developed a strong friendship and a mutual respect for each other.”
Jody continued, “That Jeff is approaching his ALS diagnosis with courage and a positive attitude is not surprising. He is a man of God and he is living his life in a faithful and respectful way. The way he is facing this chapter in his life with dignity and strength is an inspiration to all of us. Jeff is more than a Blue Brother, he is a dear friend and wonderful mentor.”
Jody added, “I love you, Buddy. You are my favorite wingman!”
Judy Judd, former Park and Recreation Director, worked with Jeff for many years. Judy commented, “I have always been impressed with Jeff’s strong faith, love of family, and loyalty to his many friends.”
Judy added, “He has had to dig deep to face the challenges that have been thrown at him in recent years. The strength he has shown is a testament to his character.”
The Heffernon family would appreciate your prayers as they move forward into this new chapter of their lives.
Let’s all dig a little deeper, love a little harder, forgive a little quicker and as Jeff says, “Have some fun along the way.”
Salute!