Heidi Reese

In Loving Memory
Heidi Reese
January 31, 1940-April 7,2023

(Loving Mother, Oma, Sister, Friend, Aunt)

Proceeded in death by father and mother, Eugen and Margarete Schmid and her sister Christl Zimmerhofer.

Survived by brother, Bernd Schmid (Hildegard), children Andrea Butterfield (Don), Tom Reese (Marie), Patty Maxwell (Mark), Jackie Laes (Jan) and grandchildren, TJ Devine, Ryan Devine, Chris Butterfield (Britany), Matt Maxwell (Danielle), Krysten Burger (Nick), Michelle Butterfield, and Jacob Laes, as well as ten great-grandchildren.

Heidi was born in Stuttgart, Germany on January 31, 1940, the eldest of three siblings. Her early years, although fiercely difficult, (surviving the war in Nazi Germany, heart-wrenching separations from family, and a year long struggle with tuberculosis), shaped her into an amazingly strong, resilient and independent woman. At 21, following the love of her life, then GI and husband, John Reese, Heidi traveled with their two young children to the United States. Her mother was so scared she wouldn't be happy, she flew to the US a month later to bring her and the kids back to Germany. As it turned out, the Reese family and friends had completely fallen in love with Heidi and she with them; a theme that would run the length of her life. No matter where she went, she was loved for her generosity, kindness and devotion. A testament to this was just how many acquaintances she met over the years turned into permanent, life-long friends.

Heidi and John would eventually move out west, growing their family by two more and settling in Seattle. She loved experiencing life and enjoyed camping, deep sea fishing, sewing (she was a master seamstress), car trips and big family get togethers. Ultimately the family settled in the Spokane Valley where Heidi enjoyed her flower garden, walking (completed Bloomsday, twice), swimming, German Club and volunteering. Heidi absolutely loved her home she built in Liberty Lake and remained in the area until her passing.

To know Heidi was to know she loved people. Her family meant everything to her and her happiest times were spent in the midst of all their celebrations, laughter, and play. She also loved traveling especially trips to Germany to reconnect with family and friends. Another great love was the 40 years she worked for Dr. Dave and Mark at North Pines Chiropractic caring for her beloved patients. Each and every patient meant the world to her. Her faith and worship at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection was an enormously important part of her life. She found immense joy being a member and cherished the life-long friendships, love, and support she shared with so many in its congregation. One special love of Heidi's was her once weekly trips to Sacred Heart's NICU to rock and sing to the substance-exposed newborns. She had such an amazing way with those babies and no matter what the weather, always showed up for them. Although Heidi rarely talked or boasted about herself, if asked she would tell you that besides the birth of her four children, her proudest moment was July 6, 1969 when she officially became a United States citizen. She was an incredibly beautiful person on the inside and out and will be missed beyond words.

The family welcomes you to join them for a Celebration of Life on Saturday April 29th at 2pm at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection in the Spokane Valley. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the National Alzheimer’s Association and/or Hospice of Spokane.