Marie Heilman

Marie Irene Heilman, 94, died at home on Thurs., May 30, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. A visitation will be on Tues., June 4 from 6:00-7:00 pm followed by a prayer service and story sharing.  On Wed., June 5, a visitation will be held at 9:30, the funeral service will begin at 10:30 and followed by a lunch gathering.  All services will take place at St. John’s Church in Wahpeton.  Marie will be buried at the Fargo National Veterans Cemetery with her husband in a small ceremony.

Marie was born to John and Catherine (Piatz) Heil on October 30, 1929, in Selz, ND.  She grew up on a farm in Selz and attended a country school through eighth grade.  Marie married Herman Heilman on October 1,1951 in Selz; they were married for 70 years.   Herman and Marie had a long and happy marriage, celebrating the birth of nine children.  If ever two were one then surely, they were.

She was a source of love and support; she always had your back.  No matter the occasion she was willing to lend a helping hand, a warm touch, a listening ear, and your favorite comfort foods.  Nothing could put a smile on her face like the sight of her grandchildren and great grandchildren, no one could comfort a crying baby like Marie, she had a magic touch. Marie’s grandchildren brought her pure joy. There was no stopping her when she was spending time with her grandkids; she loved to spoil them, and she deserved every single minute of joy.  Those moments will be forever cherished.

When Marie saw a need, she quietly went about meeting it, she was a silent heroine with an astonishing intuition. Her empathy, kindness and compassion were boundless, she sensed when you were in despair which would lead her to wrap her arms around you – this small gesture made everything better if only for a moment. She supported us, along with neighbors, friends and the community.   Her nurturing spirit touched the lives of many. 

Marie was an incredible cook.   She never used a recipe, but always just put the ingredients together until it ‘looked right’. However, the primary ingredient in every recipe was love.   Attempts by others to replicate these recipes have been mildly successful at best.  We will keep making the favorites but know that they will never again be quite the same.

Waiting to greet Marie in Heaven are her husband Herman, infant daughter Karen, parents, brothers, Pius, Leo and Raymond; sisters, Rose, Albina, Barbara, and Lena.  Left to carry on Marie’s legacy are her children Diane (Jim), Bob (Rebecca), Ron (Kristi), Al (Lisa), Rick (Pegg), Carla, Annette (Heidi) and Ann (Kory); eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Mom’s strength, courage and strong will were rooted in her unwavering faith. She taught us about faith, unconditional love, kindness and respect for others by how she lived and loved. These life lessons will guide our family for generations. 

You taught us well Mom we will take care of each other, rest easy.