Obituary of Patrick James Hejka

On Friday afternoon, August 31, 2018, Patrick James Hejka (Papa), loving son, brother and friend, died while doing something he dearly loved: working in his flower garden. Pat was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 22, 1955 to parents Janina and Thaddeus Hejka. He was a thoughtful and generous person who called his mom daily for years. A talented, self-taught mechanic, he repaired anyones car for free, just for the asking. He took his skills to the U.S. Air Force and became a helicopter maintenance Crew Chief. Pat was a passionate fisherman and gardener. A lover of the outdoors, he organized many family fishing trips. He retired from General Motors and was a lifelong supporter of unions. A very intelligent person with a biting sense of humor. Pat was preceded in death by his close friend and father, Ted. He is survived by his mom and ten siblings: John, Ted, Mike, Tony, Jeanette, Eddie, Theresa, Caroline, Agnes and Andy. He also left behind many nieces and nephews who cared about him. There will be a funeral Mass on Monday, September 10, 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas aBecket, Canton, MI. A luncheon will follow at Stitt Post at 12:30 p.m., 23850 Military Rd., Dearborn Heights, MI. Pat and his family asked that any donations be made to the Autism Alliance of Michigan.