Nellie L. Heieren, 97, passed away in Ridgewood Care Center, on Thursday, January 17, 2013. She was born in Tobique, Slater Township, Minnesota, the daughter of the late Charles H. and Frances Bell (nee: Slater) Godfrey.
On October 6, 1935, in Remer, MN, she was united in marriage to Peder N. Heieren, who preceded her in death on Nov. 25, 2003. Nellie had been employed by several supermarkets, including, A & P, Kroger’s, and Piggly Wiggly. She was a very active member of the First Evangelical Free Church, where she was the Sunday School Superintendent for over 25 years, was instrumental in the founding and coordinating the Prayer Chain, and the Ladies Bible Study. Nellie also led the Women’s Bible Study at Racine Residential Care for many years. Nellie enjoyed crocheting for family and friends. She was a true Christian woman and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Surviving are her children, Joyce Peterson, of Racine, Duane Heieren Sr., of Marietta, GA, and Frank (Sandy) Heieren, of Racine; 9 grandchildren, Jeryl (Bill) Medlin, of Racine, Troy Swanson, of Gordon, WI, Debra (Kim) McWhirter, of Marietta, GA, Duane Heieren Jr., of Murphy, NC, Douglas Heieren, of Kennesaw, GA, Julie (Darryl) Jorgensen, of Racine, Tracie (Jesse) Bocanegra, of Lake City, FL, Jamie (Brenda) Heieren, of Racine, and Karie (John) Howell, of Hortonville, WI; 25 great grandchildren, numerous great-great grandchildren, and her sister, Charlotte (Victor) Lowe, of Mahtomedi, MN. Her many nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family and friends further survive her. In addition to her parents, and beloved husband, Peder, Nellie was preceded in death by her grandson, Todd Swanson, great grandson Isaiah Heieren, daughter-in-law, Selma Heieren, 5 sisters and 2 brothers.
Her funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Tuesday, January 22rd, at 7:00 p.m. with Pastor John Bodnar officiating. Visitation will be in the funeral Home on Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Private burial will be in West Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorials to the First Evangelical Free Church.
Lora Joyce says
Gramma, you were an amazingly loving and wonderful woman. Always a woman of God and I feel better now knowing you are in his hands. You are my angel and I know you are happy at home with Grampa and Uncle Todd. I love you and miss you more than you know.
Barbara Micheln says
I am so sorry for your loss. Sadly, I will be in Chicago with the store students on their shopping trip and unable to attend visitation or services. I will remember you in my prayers.
Richard Baumann says
Sorry for your loss.
Norma Engberg says
Mrs.Heieren was one of my Sunday School Teachers as a young girl growing up. She taught us the value of Scripture in our lives. She was a part of the good Christian foundation I received growning up. She is with her Savior whom she loved so much. Prayers for the family.
Ruth Ann Wieland says
Joyce,
It is so special to read about your mother–what a blessed life. I am also thankful that you and I met and talked that night at Ridgewood. God Bless,
Ruth Ann and Dick W.
Kathy Stenzel says
I’m so sorry for your loss. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Susan Pascucci says
Joyce,
So sorry for the loss of your beloved mother. She lived a long life and she will be missed by many. May you memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Susan Pascucci
Roni Pasch says
Mrs. Heieren or also known as Grandma at Racine Residential Care was one of the most loving and caring people I have ever met. I was Blessed in so many ways to have known her as well as all the other lives she touched along the way. I will always cherish the fond memories of her.
Brenda Stockton says
Joyce, I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. We’ve talked and shared many stories about our parents over the years. Now your mom and dad are together once again! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care, Brenda
Brenda Stockton says
Joyce, I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. We’ve talked and shared many stories about our parents over the years. Now your mom and dad are together once again! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care, Brenda
Joan Herman (Sorensen) says
Duane
Sorry for your loss.She must have been an amazing woman.
We saw your Mom’s obit in paper and were shocked to see Selma had died. Would you please contact me about Selma? Thank you