Jaimi Lynn Hegenauer

Jaimi Lynn Hegenauer passed away peacefully at her home in Linden on Oct. 18, 2025, surrounded by her family and her dogs. She was 52.

Born on Dec. 15, 1972, to Beverlee (Bant) and Stephen Smaka, Jaimi grew up in Linden, where she built lifelong roots. She was a proud graduate of Linden High School, Class of 1991, serving as class president, homecoming queen and a three-sport athlete. From an early age, she brought unmatched energy and leadership to everything she did.

She continued her studies as a student-athlete at Mott Community College, where she played softball. After two years at MCC, she transferred to Central Michigan University, earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s in middle-level education. At CMU, she remained active in campus life, including joining the Tri Sigma sorority.

Jaimi’s teaching journey began with student teaching placements in Elk Rapids, Michigan, and Perth, Australia. Upon graduating from college, she spent two years at Discovery Elementary School in Palm Bay, Florida, before returning home to Michigan to join Grand Blanc Community Schools. She spent 26 years as a dedicated middle school educator at Grand Blanc West Middle School, teaching primarily sixth through eighth grade social studies.

At West, Jaimi was more than a teacher - she was a leader, mentor and advocate. Her creativity, humor and heart were just as integral to her teaching as any lesson plan. She served as a union association representative, coached volleyball and softball, and eagerly threw herself into countless school activities, field trips and spirit events. Her genuine joy in connecting with others left a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues alike.

On March 23, 2002, Jaimi married Grant Hegenauer, and together they built a home full of love, laughter and adventure. They welcomed their daughter, Jillian Noelle, in 2003, and their son, Aiden David, in 2005. She championed them endlessly, whether that was ringing her cowbell on the soccer sidelines or staying up all night to help with a school project.

Jaimi spent her summers camping across Michigan with family and friends and often escaped to Anna Maria Island for spring break. She was happiest near the water, especially boating on Squaw Lake with either a book in hand or surrounded by laughter.

Jaimi loved deeply and lived vividly. She had a passion for animals - especially her greyhounds and dachshunds - and filled her home with rescued dogs and birds, each one given the same love and care she gave to people. She had a green thumb and a home full of thriving plants. Her joy for life came through in every smile and in the countless moments she allowed others to feel seen.

On Aug. 28, Jaimi was diagnosed with cancer and faced her battle with the same strength and spirit she brought to every part of her life. She is survived by her husband, Grant Hegenauer; daughter, Jillian Hegenauer; son, Aiden Hegenauer; parents, Beverlee (Bant) and Stephen Smaka; brother, Jeffrey Smaka; and nephews, Cole and Clay Smaka.

Jaimi left her mark on every life she touched - as a teacher, a mother, a friend, a wife, a daughter, a sister, and a fighter.

A memorial service will be held 11AM Saturday, November 8, 2025 at Grand Blanc High School Auditorium, 12500 Holly Rd., Grand Blanc. Visitation will be held from 3-8 PM Friday, November 7, 2025 at Sharp Funeral Homes, 1000 Silver Lake Rd., Fenton.

In lieu of flowers, the family would love if people would donate in Jaimi's memory to one of the following causes that represent her. A scholarship fund that will be set up for students through Grand Blanc Community Schools, Sarcoma Foundation of America (curesarcoma.org) or  Allies for Greyhounds (alliesforgreyhounds.org)