John Heffernan, 79, of New Fairfield, died peacefully December 22, surrounded by his family. He was born February 28, 1939, in Yonkers, N.Y., and was the son of the late Dorothy and Clifford Heffernan. He was one of two children.

His loyal wife of 51 years, Patricia; his five loving daughters and their spouses, Carolyn and Chad Turoczi of Newtown, Maureen and Ricky Greco of Danbury, Eileen Heffernan of Southbury, Elizabeth and Mike Schirmer of Danbury, and Kathleen and Jason Robards of Danbury; and his seven grandchildren survive him.

His son, Thomas, and his sister, Joan, predeceased him.

Mr Heffernan was a resident of New Fairfield for 34 years, having previously lived in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.

He served his country in the US Air Force. He spent a majority of his career in computer systems management, working most recently for the state of New York before his retirement. He was an avid reader, philosopher, and classic car enthusiast. He spent many years restoring classic cars, oftentimes getting all his children involved. Above all, he loved making memories with his family and was a man of faith.

A memorial mass will take place Saturday, December 29, at 11 am, in Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, 149 Deer Hill Avenue, Danbury.

In lieu of flowers, friends may consider a contribution to the American Lung Association to help fund COPD research at lung.org.