Elaine Heittman 10/23/2025

Elaine June Heittman, age 87, of New Richmond, WI, passed away peacefully of natural causes on October 23, 2025. Born on June 14, 1938, in Eureka Township, MN, Elaine was a beloved daughter of the Lecander family and grew up on a dairy farm in Deer Park. She attended high school in New Richmond, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with love, laughter, and community.

Elaine’s life was characterized by her fierce independence and her impeccable organization, as she maintained a tidy home and ensured her records were always in perfect order. She cherished family above all, with her favorite pastime being visits with her loved ones. In a daily tradition that spoke to her deep connection with her siblings and their families, she enjoyed coffee with them, sharing laughs and spoiling pets, as long as health permitted. Later, the tradition of daily contact moved to the phone, but stayed as strong as ever.

Her mind remained sharp and inquisitive throughout her life, as she enjoyed puzzles and games and stayed well-informed about current events. Elaine was always ready for a stimulating conversation on any topic, and her faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She lived in the confident assurance of love and salvation, maintaining an ongoing conversation with God that paralleled her interactions with family.

Elaine’s career as a homemaker flourished during her years in Franconia, Virginia, where she and her late husband, Bob, raised their son, Rob. Expanding the nurturing environment she created at home, Elaine served as a full-time volunteer at Springfield Estates elementary school, riding the bus to school and back, and enjoying being a bonus Mom to many of Rob’s classmates. Later, she turned her volunteerism to local government, working with Bob and their many close friends on managing growth while preserving the rich history of Franconia.

After Bob’s passing in 2003, she returned to New Richmond, reuniting with her cherished siblings, nieces, and nephews. It was here that Elaine opened her heart once again when she found love with her neighbor, Bill. Together, they enjoyed a joyful partnership in retirement, becoming fixtures in the local dining scene and supporting one another through life’s challenges until Bill’s passing in 2016.

In her later years, Elaine faced health concerns that made her largely homebound, yet she remained devoted to her family. Her love and care continued to shine through as she kept strong connections with her relatives. Elaine was preceded in death by her husband Bob, parents Roy and Myrtle; her brother Howard (Jan); and her sisters, Joanne (Bill), Carol, Ruthie and Bonnie. Elaine is survived by her loving son, Rob, daughter-in-law, Alison; her devoted siblings: Pete (Donna) and Lois (Wayne); and all the greater Lecander family she so cherished.

A celebration of Elaine’s life was held on Monday, October 27, 2025 from 4-7 pm with a Memory Sharing Service at 6:30 pm at the R&D Catering and Banquet Facility 1490 131st Street New Richmond, WI honoring her legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith, surrounded by those she cherished most. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, reminding us to cherish our family and embrace the joys of life. Interment was in Calvary Cemetery in Deer Park, WI.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.