Heidi E. Heinrich

KEWANEE – Heidi E. Heinrich, 49, of Kewanee, died at 10:10 p.m., Thursday, January 28, 2021 at her home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Heidi was born August 5, 1971 in Kewanee, the daughter of Richard W. and Mary (Hill) Heinrich.

Survivors include her mother and step-father, Mary (Meredith) Duncan of Toulon, daughter; Kylee Conlin, son; Aimery Jackson, both of Kewanee, two brothers, Richard (Melissa) Heinrich of Mooresville, NC and Jeffrey (Laura) Heinrich of Kewanee, three nephews including Cole Heinrich of Mooresville NC., Ernie and Charlie Heinrich of Kewanee. Special Friend, Kirk Francis, Greta Francis, and J.D. Francis of Hawthorn Woods, IL. She was preceded in death by her father.

Heidi graduated from Wethersfield High School in 1989.  She was a devoted member of the Wethersfield Booster Club. Heidi had a vigorous spirit for her Alma Mater. She took pride in preparing for all the Wethersfield activities, particularly the sporting events and those involving her son and daughter. Heidi approached every commitment to her Geese family with her typical loyalty and passion. Those who were around her quickly became acquainted with her competitive nature, to say the least.

Heidi went back to school to Western Illinois University to obtain a degree in Special Education. She was a schoolteacher for Henry-Stark Counties Special Education. Heidi embraced the joys and challenges of her profession with the same spirit she had for life. She was a beloved teacher at Irving School where her students meant the world to her. She loved her students as she loved her own children and over the years touched many lives.

Heidi was also an avid sports fan and loved her Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.  Heidi also enjoyed traveling. She was fortunate to visit many destinations with family and her “Serb”, Kirk Francis, Greta and JD who became “extended” family. She enjoyed boating and especially pool time. Heidi will most be remembered for her contagious personality. She loved to socialize with her friends and celebrate every one of life special moments.

Heidi endured a battle with cancer for many years. She met this battle with the fight and courage that she was well known for. For Heidi, her battle was not about herself, it was for her kids, her students, and all her family and friends. Throughout her entire battle she remained positive and uplifted all those that she loved so fiercely.

Private services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 3 at Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee with Rev. Mara Ahles-Iverson officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery. Due to the love and support of the community the service will also be live streamed through the funeral homes Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ruxfuneralhome. Her family is planning a Celebration of life at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Heidi Heinrich Memorial Fund c/o Community State Bank in Kewanee.

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