Long-time DIG sales manager dies

Rick Heenan, national sales manager, commercial products for DIG, died on Sept. 19 of cancer, just months after his retirement.

In 1990, Heenan joined DIG as commercial sales manager and through his efforts established and grew DIG’s presence within the professional irrigation industry, the company said in a statement.

“He had a tremendous knowledge of all DIG products, and was our resident expert in battery powered controllers,” the statement said. “Rick was very well regarded in the irrigation industry for his continuous involvement in industry associations, his outgoing personality and friendly attitude. There was not a trade show DIG attended in more than 20 years where Rick’s familiar smile and willingness to help were not present.”

Heenan was an avid Padres fan, a devoted husband and dog lover. A Grammy Award winning sound engineer prior to his entrance to the irrigation industry, Heenan’s love of music stayed with him all his life. He is survived by his wife Susan, and his ashes will be scattered at sea near Oceanside where they resided with their two dogs. There are no services pending.