Durwood Dean “Pork” Heath, age 91 of Leonidas, MI passed away on September 2, 2026 in Three Rivers, MI following a brief illness. He was born in Parchment, MI on November 2, 1934 the son of Harry Heath Sr and Irene (Bush).

For eight years, Durwood proudly served his country as part of the United States Marine Corps; he was very proud of his accomplishments as a Marine, a brotherhood he held dearly for the rest of his life. On March 5, 1966 he would marry Gladys VanFulpen in Leonidas, MI and spend 56 wonderful years together before her passing in 2022.

Briefly, Durwood worked at the Haas Corp in Mendon, MI before moving on to work for Prairie Crop in Mendon, MI – a job he enjoyed and worked hard at for over 30 years. He would often be heard cheering on his Detroit Lions and Tigers, listening to Hank Williams Sr., and watching John Wayne movies. Durwood was a member of the American Legion in Colon and later became a member of the Marine Corps League in Mendon. His ties to the Marines never faded, hand-making wooden toys for the Toys for Tots program, providing happiness to children in need. Durwood could build, create, and fabricate anything – especially with a good piece of pine or oak. Above all else, Durwood loved his family, especially his beloved grandchildren.

Durwood is survived by his three children; Don (Lavonda) Heath, Dennis (Casey) Heath, and Vivian (Gene) Saftlas; five grandchildren; Allison Heath, Dalton Heath, Megan Heath, Dean Heath, and Jessica Saftlas; his brother, Willard (Edna) Heath; and many extended families and friends. He was preceded in passing by his parents, Harry and Irene Heath; his siblings; Ronald Heath, Harry Heath Jr., Robert Heath, and Joyce Thrams; and his loving wife, Gladys Heath.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation is being conducted. Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072) from 11am until 1pm, with a memorial service beginning at 1pm. At a later date, a private ceremony will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery, where he will be honored by the United States Marine Corps for his service and dedication to his country. It is suggested that donations in Durwood’s name be directed to either Toys for Tots, Wounded Warrior Project, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Shriners Hospitals for Children. Condolences and memories may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com