Heather Jo Hackett's Obituary
Big Rapids Heather Jo Hackett, 35, of Big Rapids, formerly of Traverse City, passed away January 5, 2011, in the presence of her loving family. She is survived by her mother, Kim Nichols of Traverse City, four brothers and sisters, Jessica (John) Lindsay, Seth Hackett, Elijah Cornell, and Kelsey Nichols; grandmother, Joan Hackett, stepfather, Kirk Nichols, one nephew, Jacob Lindsay, two nieces, Katie and Abigail Lindsay, her two kitties, Baby and Shadow Lynn, plus many, many special friends. Heather was preceded in death by her grandfather, Dr. William Hackett, and Auntie Lori Taylor. Heather was a 1993 graduate of Traverse City Central High School. She graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelors Degree in Education and completed her Masters Degree in Education from Michigan State University. Heather moved to Big Rapids in 1999 to fulfill her desire and passion for teaching. Heather was a gifted, skillful, and dedicated teacher. Always at home in the classroom, she loved her students and always believed in the unlimited potential and strength in each and every one of them. Teaching was a joy to Heather and she filled every day with smiles, learning, high fives, hugs, and handshakes. Strong and energetic, Heather loved spending time with her family and many friends, all kinds of exercise classes, yoga, kayaking, and travel. Her adventures included travel to the Caribbean, New Orleans, Colorado, New York City, Austin, Las Vegas, El Paso, and Chicago. She found much enjoyment in listening to her favorite music and she attended concerts with excitement and enthusiasm. Heather was an avid reader and she loved to learn. Gardening and cooking were two of her newly developing skills. Well known for her sense of humor in every area of life, Heathers smiling face and infectious laughter had a positive affect on all who knew her. Heathers greatest legacy lives on in the lives of all of her many students; in their generosity and compassion for others, and in their ever unfolding lifelong accomplishments. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 2:00 p.m., in the Big Rapids High School Auditorium. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Big Rapids Middle School Band. ?
What’s your fondest memory of Heather?
What’s a lesson you learned from Heather?
Share a story where Heather's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Heather you’ll never forget.
How did Heather make you smile?