April 22, 2025 – Long ago, in a galaxy far away, I hired a guy named Mike Heenan to be a law columnist. His reputation in the industry was incredible and he was intelligent, well-spoken and thought deeply about the issues impacting aggregates producers. I was also the publisher of his books on mine safety and health. So I was deeply saddened to learn that he passed away on April 3. I know he helped many aggregates and cement companies with his sage advice and representation. He was also very active in the “Council of Counsel” group of attorneys that gathered at national association meetings. He was one of the finest men I ever met in this industry and he will be missed. Below is his official obituary. You can leave a remembrance here.
Michael T. Heenan, of Arlington, Va., passed away peacefully at home with his family on April 3, 2025, at the age of 83. Mike deeply cherished his family and time spent with them. He and his wife Patty loved to travel, try new restaurants (and frequent old favorites), and socialize with friends. Mike was always the first and last one on the dance floor (after the bride and groom) at every wedding he attended. Mike was a loving grandfather who enjoyed attending sporting events, concerts, and other events of his grandchildren and step-grandchildren.
Mike was married to his first wife, Maryte (“Mary”) for nearly 30 years, with whom he had three children, Garrett, Leslie, and Suzanne. Mike and Mary loved spending time in Bethany Beach and hunting for good deals on antiques for Mary’s antique shop.
Mike served in the U.S. Navy as an Admiral’s Aide (Flag Lieutenant). He then had a long, distinguished career as an attorney, practicing for over 40 years until he was 75 years old. In retirement, Mike began painting and found great joy in creating beautiful works of art. Mike loved to read, often challenging himself by reading novels in his second language, Spanish. Mike also cherished his cat, Harry, a constant companion in retirement, often joining Mike on car rides and trips to the art store or the park.
Mike is survived by his wife Patricia “Patty” Gaw Heenan, his son Garrett Heenan (wife Camille), his daughters Leslie Maffeo (husband Michael) and Suzanne Heenan, grandsons Colin, Nolan, and Griffin, and granddaughter Zoe, step-sons Shane Canestra (wife Alicia) and Josh Canestra, step granddaughter Kaylie Rawls (husband Randy) and step-grandson Kyle Canestra, brother Rory Heenan (wife Matty) and sister Moira Sparks. He is predeceased by his first wife, Maryte Narkevicius Heenan, his parents Paul and Helen Heenan, and his sister Martha Heenan.
Mike will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.