John Peter Heintz II was born on March 7, 1961 in Fort Knox, Kentucky and died at home on April 29, 2023, surrounded by his loving wife and children. In every sense, John was an exceptional man who flourished most when helping others. He was a loyal friend, caring father, supportive husband, and collaborative colleague. After graduating from Carleton College and the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs, he began his career working at the Minnesota Department of Finance, where he enjoyed impacting public policy and working with his amazing, talented colleagues. After he was initially diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) in 2001, he reflected on life and career goals, ultimately deciding to return to school at Saint Catherine's University to become a reference librarian. This allowed him to spend more time on what he was most passionate about sharing and applying knowledge for the common good. He started his second career as a reference librarian at the University of St. Thomas, where he held various positions in the library department. Here again, he was privileged to work with exceedingly intelligent and creative colleagues and students. Through all his professional and personal accomplishments, he will be remembered for being one-of-a-kind: uniquely compassionate and funny, while unfailingly maintaining a core ethic of hard work and integrity in everything he did. John is survived by his wife, Monica Herrera; son, Kurt Herrera-Heintz; daughter-in-law, Jacqueline Liat Rome; and grandson, Luka Phoenix Herrera Rome; daughter, Marina Herrera-Heintz; sister, Elizabeth Heintz Wood, several nieces and a nephew, and numerous extended family members. A service celebrating his life will be held at Sts. Luke's and James Episcopal Church (4557 Colfax Ave. S., Minneapolis, 55419) at 4pm on Saturday, May 20. An informal welcome celebration will begin at 3. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his honor can be directed to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (Memorials and Honor Gifts) or the Friends of Hennepin County Library (supporthclib.org)