Colleen Theresa Heiden, age 91, of Westphalia, passed away on Christmas Day. Surrounded by her loving family she found solace and comfort in her faith. She was born in Westphalia on June 14, 1932, the daughter of Alfred and Alvina (Pline) Nurenberg.

Colleen enjoyed working outside the home and worked for the State of Michigan as well as Pewamo Westphalia Public Schools for many years. She began as a secretary in the front office of the high school and later became the bookkeeper in the superintendent’s office. She enjoyed working with both staff and students and especially enjoyed being part of the move toward using computers and technology for her accounting tasks.

Colleen enjoyed learning new skills such as quilting and over the years she created many special quilts for her entire family. She also enjoyed all forms of travel from family camping trips to visiting landmarks and special places throughout the United States. With her husband, Ben, she traveled to Germany and enjoyed learning about her ancestor’s culture and traditions. Closer to home she enjoyed spending time at the family cottage on Higgins Lake. She was especially happy when her children and grandchildren were there with her.

Above all, Colleen's pride and joy was her family. She was interested in the activities of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and attended many of their concerts, recitals, sporting events and plays.

Preceding Colleen in death are her parents; husband of 69 years, Bennie Heiden; siblings, Bob (Germaine) Nurenberg, Denis (Geri) Nurenberg, and Donna (Jerry) West; in-laws, LeRoy Hunter, Betty (Johnny) Hubble, Herman (Lydia) Heiden, Johnny Davis, Ray Watson, Laura (Danny) Hudson, and Dora Heiden. She is survived by her children, Steve (Sue) Heiden, LeAnn (John Sablan) Thelen, Pam (Joe) Smith, Teri (Bob) Vasquez, Michael (Tammy) Heiden and Jeff (Casondra) Heiden; 20 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, with one on the way; siblings, Jim (Jane) Nurenberg, Janet (Jack) Daily, Tom (Ann) Nurenberg, Dick (Judy) Nurenberg, and Kathy Hunter; in-laws, Ed (Delores) Heiden, Irene Watson, and Virginia Davis; along with many nieces and nephews.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Peter Lawrence at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 30, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Westphalia. Rite of Committal will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.