John Heinz
Henry John Heinz III (October 23, 1938 â April 4, 1991) was an American businessman and politician who served as the U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania from 1977 until his death in 1991. A member of the Republican Party, Heinz was known for his center-left positions on health, environment, and trade policy. His unexpected death in a plane crash cut short his career.
Early Life and Education
Heinz was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of Joan Diehl and H. J. Heinz II, the head of the H. J. Heinz Company, a well-known food processing corporation, most known for their Heinz ketchup. He attended St. Paul's School in New Hampshire and went on to graduate from Yale University in 1960. He earned an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1963 before returning to work for the family business.
Political Career
Heinz entered politics in 1971, winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives for Pennsylvania's 18th congressional district. In 1976, he successfully ran for the U.S. Senate, where he focused on issues such as health care reform, environmental protection, and trade policies benefiting American industries. Heinz was particularly known for advocating acid rain research, supporting funding to combat pollution from power plants, and promoting the protection of natural resources.
As Senator, Heinz was a Republican that often worked with Democrats, establishing a reputation as a moderate. He was a member of several committees, including the Senate Finance Committee and the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
Death
On April 4, 1991, Heinz died in a mid-air collision over Merion, Pennsylvania, when his plane collided with a helicopter inspecting its landing gear.
Personal Life
Heinz married Teresa Simões-Ferreira Heinz, with whom he had three sons including Chris Heinz. Following his death, Teresa later married Massachusetts Senator John Kerry, who would go on to serve as a Senator and U.S. Secretary of State in the Obama and Biden administrations. Heinz was also a philanthropist.