Heather McPherson

Oshkosh - Heather A. McPherson, age 74, passed away on Friday, July 13, 2018 from glioblastoma. She was born in Toronto, Ontario on May 31, 1944, the daughter of the late Allan and Annie (Morton) McPherson. Heather later moved with her parents to Detroit, Michigan at the age of 11. She attended Michigan State University and later the prestigious Cranbrook Academy of Art for her graduate work. In 1968 she became a Professor of Art at UW-Oshkosh, retiring from UW-Oshkosh in 2002. Textile art, print art, costume design, weaving, puppetry, and most recently photography, were among some of her many artistic passions. She was also known to appreciate all things Japanese, and enjoyed her travels there, among other beautiful places in the world. Heather will be remembered for being a compassionate kind soul who appreciated the natural world.

Heather is survived by her brother, Malcolm (Betty) McPherson; nephews: Raymond McPherson and Robert McPherson; nieces: Elaine (Kevin) McPherson and Betty Ann (Nancy) McPherson; and many great and great-great nieces and nephews. Her parents, and her great-niece Robin Barhydt preceded her in death.

It was Heather's wish to be cremated and interred with her parents in Caledon East, Ontario, Canada. Memorials in Heather's name may be given directly to International Crane Foundation www.savingcranes.org.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff at Ascension Affinity Hospice and the staff at Evergreen. Their kindness and respect will forever be remembered. Further love and appreciation is extended to all of Heather's friends who became her chosen "framily". Finally, extra gratitude is offered to both Dorlis Grubidge and Tad Mandeik for their wonderful care and assistance during this difficult time in Heather's life.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Oshkosh Northwestern on Jul. 18, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Heather McPherson

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8 Entries

Patricia Tiedt

August 22, 2018

I met Heather (and Dorlis) while both her and my husband were going thru radiation. What a warm and generous soul. She touched my soul. She donated boxes of fabric and patterns which have been made into many quilts of valor and charity. I only wish I knew her earlier. I think if her often. My sympathy to her family.

Bozena C.

August 7, 2018

Heather was my fibers instructor in the late 70s early 80s. She has left an unbelievable impact on my life. Because of her, I was able to help other weavers and teach beginner weavers after my move to western Wisconsin. She has been a kind, thoughtful, and very creative individual. I have been very fortunate to have had reconnected with her this past summer after returning to eastern Wisconsin. Her legacy goes on , in the many people she has touched. My condolenses to her family.

D P

July 23, 2018

To the family of Heather McPherson I extend my sincere sympathy to you for your loss.may you find the comfort you need at this time.

Richard Medlock

July 20, 2018

An extraordinary teacher and mentor to students. A wonderful friend, classmate at Cranbrook, and colleague at UW-O,
I am deeply saddened by her passing. I will never forget what a kind and thoughtful person she was to me.
My sympathy's to her family.

David Vander Linden

July 19, 2018

The Oshkosh Area Humane Society would like to extend its condolences to the family and friends of
Heather, at this most difficult time.

We are also very thankful for the gifts that Heather made to the OAHS. We are most appreciative.

Our sympathy to each of you at this time.

Mary Coleman

July 18, 2018

I was a student of Heather's at UWO in the 90's in her weaving and puppetry classes. She was one of my favorite instructors, not only because of her great talent, but also because of her gentle demeanor. I am deeply saddened to hear of her illness and passing. The art and education community has suffered a deep loss. Rest in Peace, Heather. You will be missed.

The Staff of Seefeld Family of Funeral Chapels

July 18, 2018

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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