Steven D. Heap

Steven D. Heap was born April 6, 1961 and died peacefully on May 13, 2026 in New Port Richey, FL. When he was four years old, his family moved to Harwich, Massachusetts. His first job was as a caddy at Eastward Ho Golf Club, he always made sure you didn’t forget to say “and Ho.”
His next job was with Bourne Auctioneers. While working there, he was at the Martha’s Vineyard airport when he spotted John Belushi sitting alone. Being the outgoing and fearless person he was, Steve walked right up to him and asked for an autograph. John replied, “Why?” and Steve answered, “So I can prove I met you.” John signed it: “Steve, stay cool. John Belushi.”
In 1986, Steve left Bourne and moved to Tampa, Florida, where he discovered a passion for landscaping and eventually started his own business. He was incredibly artistic and took pride in everything he created. Steve was also thrilled when the Tampa Bay Lightning came to Tampa Bay and quickly became a devoted lightning fan. He once had a job as an usher at the Ice Palace to watch the games for free. Over the years he continued attending all the games and boat parades he could.
Steve met his wife, Susan, in a biker bar — despite neither of them being bikers. They dated for two years before marrying in 1992, and they had just celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary on April 11, 2026. They settled in New Port Richey, Florida, where they were later joined by Steve’s mother and sister.
Steve was an amazing father who was deeply proud of his three children. He was involved in every part of their lives, whether coaching sports teams, attending dance recitals and football games, or celebrating graduations. He loved spending weekends working on home improvement and landscaping projects, always believing something could be fixed or made better.
As the years went on, Steve found new passions in car racing. He could often be found at Daytona and Sebring with his two sons. He especially loved cheering on Mustang racing teams, collecting drivers’ autographs, and, of course, grabbing as much free merchandise as he could get his hands on. Steve had a passion for golf and was an avid golfer. He loved spending Saturdays golfing with his friends.
When his brother, Jeff, came to town, they were inseparable. They went to any sports games and visited as many breweries as they could. They loved any new adventure together and they were the most spontaneous pair you would ever meet.
Steven is survived by his mother, Jacqueline Heap; his siblings, Sandy Nickerson and her husband, Larry Nickerson, and Jeff Heap; his beloved wife, Susan; and his three children, Jacob, Lyndsay, and Zachary.
Steve will be remembered for his humor, generosity, strong work ethic, and ability to make friends wherever he went. He loved his family deeply and took pride in creating a life filled with laughter, hard work, and unforgettable memories.