Michele K. Heimberger, beloved wife of the late Rev. Charles Heimberger. Devoted mother of Kathryn (Dr. Philip) Skiba and C.J. Heimberger. Cherished daughter of Casimer and Alberta Figura and sister of Susan (Myron) Potter. Dear aunt of Deborah, Michael, and Victoria. Fond cousin of Frank, Walter, and Frank.

Michele was an extraordinary woman. As a young widow, she effortlessly and responsibly cared for her children while working full-time at her uncle's commodities firm. She encouraged Kathy's artistic pursuits and C.J.'s musical stylings. She made sure that Kathy and C.J. were always surrounded by their steadfast village of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Michele was the consummate gardener; her green thumb made her a savior of others' discarded plants. She found joy, not just in big things like leisurely Sarasota vacations or family holiday gatherings or Cubs World Series victories, but also in small things like a weekend in Vegas or the changing of the seasons. Each fall she welcomed the autumn leaves with pumpkins and colorful mums.

Michele's spirit and zest for life will be carried on by her great-niece Olivia, and her great-nephews Isaac and Eli. Her wit, her laughter, and her homemade cranberry sauce will be sorely missed.

A graveside funeral service will be held at St. Adalbert's Catholic Cemetery, 6800 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Niles on Wednesday, September 20 at 2:00 p.m.