Obituary of Anton Max Heldmann

Anton Max Heldmann, 87, a cherished resident of both Sanibel, Florida for the past 32 years and Tewksbury, New Jersey for the past 24 years, passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025, in Sanibel, FL. Born in Amberg, Germany, on March 19, 1937, to the late Anton and Rosa (Fruth) Heldmann, Anton's journey was one of courage and resilience.

At the age of 19, Anton embarked on a new life in the United States settling in New Jersey with little more than hope and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, he built a beautiful life for his wife and family, embodying the true spirit of honor and principles. Anton was a devoted family man, admired and well-respected by all who knew him. His wisdom, humility, selflessness, and hardworking nature left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of meeting him.

In addition to his remarkable character, Anton was a lifelong avid tennis competitor, proudly competing at the national level in the USTA. Locally, he was a member of the Dunes Men’s tennis team  in Sanibel and the Westfield Tennis Club team in New Jersey.  His passion for the sport was a testament to his dedication and competitive spirit. His love for the sport trickled down to his family who were at one time named New Jersey’s tennis family by The STAR LEDGER.  Anton was preceded in death by his son, Joseph Heldmann and his brother Josef Heldmann of Amberg, Germany.

In 1968, Anton became the owner of Vulcan Tool Company, a manufacturing business in which he was a key supplier to the aerospace and defense industries accumulating many corporate awards. In 1978 Vulcan Tool Company won the U.S. Small Business Administration Award.

Anton is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Elfriede Heldmann; two children, Richard Heldmann and his wife, Carrie of New Jersey and Rosemarie Heldmann of  New Jersey; six grandchildren, Anton Heldmann and his wife Jennifer, Joseph Heldmann, Erika Brown and her husband Andrew, Paige Reckziegel and her husband Kurt, Olivia Pescatore and Sophia Pescatore; as well as four great grandchildren.

His legacy of strength, love, and unwavering principles will continue to inspire those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the following philanthropy;

https://secure.childrenshospital.org/site/TR/DIYFundraiser/General?px=3020732&pg=personal&fr_id=2410

The Funeral repast will be held at Pucciarello's, 34 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover, NJ 07936, following the committal service.