Douglas Heilmann

Douglas Heilmann and his store Ducky's have both been staples in the New Braunfels community. Doug was born in New Braunfels on July 18, 1953 and was raised there by Elmer and Frances Heilmann. Doug took a lot of pride in New Braunfels and shared vivid memories of his passion for the band and lifelong friendships he established at New Braunfels high school. During that time he developed his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial background by helping his parents at their family owned business, H&H Fabric Store. After high school Doug branched out to start his own T-shirt business which would later become the store so many locals and tourists have come to know and love, Ducky's Swimwear & T-shirts. Doug started the Ducky's business in 1978 and was able to purchase the current location on S. Union St. in 1985. Doug treated his employees like family and loved to tell stories to the customers that visited his store.

Doug married his true love, Dinah K. Ludwig, on March 17, 1979 and they were blessed to have two amazing daughters, Rachael and Renee. Doug loved spending time with his family and friends. His countless stories of beach trips, Longhorn football games, deer hunting, and Vegas trips will always be remembered and shared.

One of Doug's true passions in life was his dedication to his yard and landscaping. So many weekends were spent by the pool barbequing and working in the yard. He had a wonderful dedication to his plumerias and has shared that passion with friends, family, and even Ducky's customers. Doug spent his last days at home in Garden Ridge where he requested the bed to face the window so he could peer out to the beautiful back yard he spent so much time to perfect. On July 15, 2017 he peacefully passed away after a grueling battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

Doug is survived by his wife Dinah, his two daughters and their husbands Rachael and Chris Sandahl and Renee and Jimmie Nalls of New Braunfels, Tx, his two grandchildren, Caylee and Cameron Sandahl, his father, Elmer Heilmann, his two sisters and their husbands Shirley and Ronnie Smithers and Sharon and David Wiedenfeld of New Braunfels, Tx, as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Heilmann, his brother Donald Heilmann, his mother in law and father in law Edgar & Vera Ludwig.

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