Heidi’s daughter, Hana, was the first to welcome her to Heaven on March 23rd, 2023 when she was called home to the Lord.
The daughter of Marvin “Bob” and Elaine (Engebretson) Rebelein, Heidi Elizabeth Rebelein was born July 26, 1958 in Albert Lea, MN. She grew up on the family farm outside of Kiester, MN alongside her five siblings. Following high school, Heidi attended Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in nursing. Her patients and family (especially her parents) benefited from her skillful and compassionate care. Her nursing career took her to the Philippines, Seattle, Anchorage and the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. In between, there were jobs in both Glacier National Park and Denali National Park. Heidi loved the Alaskan wilderness and reveled in the beauty of nature and the joy of the outdoors, a trait she kept throughout her life.
During her first visit to Denali, she met Cliff Riedinger who was working at the National Park. They were married on September 24, 1989 in Eagle River, Alaska. They lived in Anchorage for an additional year before returning to the lower 48 and eventually settling in rural Kensett where they raised their two daughters, Erin and Hana.
Heidi loved her family over everything else. She adored her two daughters and seamlessly transitioned into the role of doting grandma once her granddaughter, Addison, was born. She and Addison would spend countless hours together, reading, taking the dog for walks, and sharing stories. When they couldn’t be together, Heidi cherished their evening calls during which they would watch the moon from separate locations.
Heidi enjoyed the simple aspects of life. Walks among nature, bird watching, and spending time with family were some of her favorites. She was one to choose comfort over fashion, the country vs. the city, empathy vs. criticism, and long conversations rather than short. Blessed with a beautiful voice, she sang in the Gustavus Adolphus choir and performed many solos in years to come. She enjoyed traveling as often as she could and looked forward to taking the family back to Alaska in her retirement.
Heidi is survived by her husband of 33 years, Cliff; her daughter and granddaughter, Erin and Addison; mother, Elaine Rebelein; siblings, Candace Powell, Dana (David) Porter, Steven Rebelein, and Stephanie Rebelein as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
She is joined in Heaven by her father, Bob Rebelein; sister, Denise McGovern and daughter, Hana Riedinger.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, April 1st, at Elk Creek Lutheran Church, 4108 Killdeer Ave., Kensett, IA with Pastor Linda Johnson Prestholt officiating.
Heidi’s family will greet relatives and friends on Friday evening, March 31st, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Conner Colonial Chapel, 1008 1st Ave. S., Northwood, IA.
Memorials preferred to Elk Creek Lutheran Church or Northwood-Kensett Schools Music Department.
colonialchapels.com
