Dependable, skilled, hard-working and a team player. They all describe Howard Heppner.
Heppner’s basketball experience in Lynden -- 27-0 in junior high, and 69-6 in high school with three state tournaments, two state championships, and two all-state honors -- made him a welcome fit in Les Habegger’s Seattle Pacific program. The Heppner Falcons went 78-31, played in three NCAA (college division) regionals, placing third, first and second, and qualified for the Falcons’ first basketball national appearance in 1965. Heppner finished with career rebounding records, and was runner-up to Loren Anderson in several offensive categories.
Heppner assisted Habegger for three seasons while teaching business at Evergreen High School in the Highline School District before moving to Oregon City, Ore. There, he taught business, coached basketball (two years as an assistant coach, three as head coach), and earned a master’s degree at Portland State University. In 1974, he returned to Lynden to teach business and become the head cross country and golf coach, and serve as an assistant basketball coach.
In 1976, just 10 years out of college, Heppner was selected as the superintendent of the Lynden School District. His other honors include Whatcom County Superintendents Association chair, Elmer Clarkson Meritorious Award (for promotion of extracurricular activities), and the Paul Harris Fellow Award (Rotary International’s recognition for contributions to the Lynden District).
ACCOMPLISHMENTS (1963-66)
• All-America recipient in 1966.
• Top scorer and rebounder for 1965 Elite Eight team.
• MVP and top scorer for 1964 and 1966 NCAA Tournament teams.
• SPU Athlete of the Year in 1966.
• Set school record for career rebounds.
