Daniel Heaton

Daniel Ellis Heaton, 26, of Sedalia left all earthly possessions behind to be with the Lord to care for us from above on March 13. 2015. He was born on July 9, 1988 in Sedalia, son of Dalles Heaton and Sabrina (Blankenship) Heaton, who survive of Sedalia. Daniel is survived by the love of his life Danielle Wilken and three beautiful daughters Jazlyn, Kaitlyn and Mariah Wilken who made his life complete. Also survived by three sisters, Amanda Martin of Sedalia, Rachell Heaton of Kansas City, and Jennifer Heaton of Clifton City; two brothers Dalles W. Heaton of Sedalia, and Darren Heaton of Kansas City; two nephews Corbin Heaton and Zander Heaton; two nieces Sierra Dehaven and Robin Dillon. The enormous size of Daniel's heart was evident from the beginning. He loved and easily developed an understanding with any animal he met, and was particularly fond of the lambs being raised by his parents. He found the beauty in God's majesty and would take the time to appreciate the wonders. Daniel was passionate about wrestling and would spend time helping the youth wrestling club, working with the kids helping them with their technique. He loved football, during football season he could fill you in on anything and would speak with enthusiasm on the subject. Daniel lived for learning; his favored interests included sports, history, and philosophy. He enjoyed being a friend and was a great storyteller as well as an empathetic listener. Daniel was also a great teacher. His unconditional love and unselfishness are lasting lessons to any that were touched by his generosity. Daniel's weakest and strongest moments all come from his heart. He loved deeply and kept his heart open always. Even at a young age of 26, Daniel understood life and knew what was important. He valued people, not possessions. He invested heavily in people, and received fulfilling returns. Daniel lived with such a fire anyone who knew him couldn't help but be drawn towards that. Daniel's greatest achievement is a legacy of love he shared with all of us, that will carry on for an eternity. Memorial service will be held at 7:00 pm, Thursday, March 19, 2015 at Rea Funeral Chapel with Pastor Steve Graff and Pastor Rob Ayers officiating. Family will receive friends one hour prior to service. Burial of Daniels ashes will be at Union Cemetery, Nelson, MO at a later date. Bearers will be Darren Heaton, Dalles W. Heaton, Michael Kusgen, Kyle Drexler, Alan Bisenieks and Mitch Potter. Honorary bearers will be David Deeds, Richard Cramer, Jose Ojead, Nathan St.Cyr, Blake Brockway and Joe Garcia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Daniel Heaton Children's Memorial Fund, in care of Rea Funeral Chapel. Following the service, please join the family at the Sedalia Elks Lodge multi-purpose building located at 320 S. Kentucky, Sedalia.