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Mike Jacki
December 20, 2022
Such sad news... followed her career and her success as a great athlete and a wonderful person...gone too soon - memories forever
Melanie Hudson (McPherson)
June 25, 2020
I am so sorry to read this. I met Heidi when I was 11. We competed against each other way back. She was a beautiful person. Once again I am so sorry for your loss!
Roger Gaber
December 29, 2014
I am sure her year in heaven has been in glory and peace!
December 28, 2014
I knew Heidi for a short time, and I'm lucky to have had the pleasure. You are with me forever!
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Marc Johnson
December 9, 2014
I knew Heidi from both Ironwood high school and the University of Arizona. We had a few classes together, the last being chemistry at UofA. Heidi was always fun to be around and she will be missed.
KP O'Kane
April 10, 2014
I knew Heidi for a brief while. We would Skype and we spent hours on the phone. We had loads of laughs. Though we lost touch, she sent me a wee email saying how happy she was in AZ after having left Miami. She always spoke of going back hone btw, even when in Philly. I'm at a loss…. May you be rest in peace, Heidi!
Darlene Zalewski
January 26, 2014
RIP my dear friend Heidi. I miss you very very much...xoxoxoxo
Michael P
January 24, 2014
As a long-time gymnastics fan, i am very sorry to hear of the loss of such a talented young woman. Sincerely,
Marilyn Ward
January 21, 2014
Dear Kathy and David,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
January 20, 2014
Dear Kathy,
I'm sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in our prayers. Heidi was a beautiful and charming woman and had a warm embrace about her. It breaks my heart to know the pain and suffering your family is going through. Again, I am sorry for your loss, and I hope our prayers help you through your grieving.
Hugs and prayers,
Jim and Elva Wanamaker
Joan Robinson
January 20, 2014
Love & healing to Hilary, Kailin, Madison, Kathryn, David & all the Hornbeek family
Angela Barber
January 19, 2014
My beautiful niece, little H.B. My heart is so heavy you are not here. To see that twinkle in your eyes or hear your giggle...you are so missed!!!I love you!!!!!
January 19, 2014
Heidi was my U of A heroine...thank you for your amazing talent and spirit! Kathie and David, relish in your precious memories and know that you were wonderful parents..love to you all
Bobby Sparks
January 16, 2014
Dear David and Kathy,
I am so sorry for your loss.I just learned of her passing tonight and I am heartbroken.I had the best years of my life with Heidi.I have countless memories of our time together and its what I hold on to. She was a such a great person. Warm, caring, funny, very intelligent. I will never forget our cross country trip to AZ to spend x-mas with you two. You guys were very nice and made me feel welcome. Heidi taught me so much about life , fitness and love etc. I ll always cherish our time together. Shes in heaven shining like the star she is. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love forever...
Bernadette (Aguinaldo) Goyette
January 15, 2014
I am so very sorry about the loss of Heidi. Please know Kathy, David and especially Hilary that you are in my prayers and thoughts. May God hold you close and His Blessed Mother help you through this time of sorrow. Hugs and prayers,
Barbara Smith
January 15, 2014
Kathy,David,Hillary and the entire family. We were all so saddened to hear of your terrible loss. You are certainly in our hearts and prayers. May your strong faith and love of your family and friends help you get through this difficult time. We will be praying for all of you. Jack Smith Family
Dr. Michael Crudder
January 11, 2014
Kathy and David,
Please know you are loved and in my thoughts and prayers during this time of loss.
Dr. Michael Crudder
Kelli Gault
January 10, 2014
I new Heidi as one of the gymnasts on the team that my dad and Bill coached. How very tragic. She is and will remain a beautiful woman, and remembered with love. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.
SVDP Class of 2012
January 8, 2014
We will always remember how much Mrs Hornbeek loved her daughter and always talked to us about Heidi. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Our prayers are with you Mrs Hornbeek. May she Rest in Peace.
January 3, 2014
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Laura Orcutt
January 2, 2014
Kathy and David,
I am so very sorry for your loss. There are not enough words to express my deepest sympathy. May God keep you close. With much love, Laura Orcutt, former Copperwood Teacher
Gail Miller
December 31, 2013
You are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
I know how difficult these times can be. Your faith will be with you always. God bless you.
December 31, 2013
Dear Kathie and David,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. So very sorry to hear about Heidi.
Fondly, Linda Bloom (Bloomie)
Jackie Graham
December 31, 2013
Oh Kathy, I am heartbroken for you and your family. May the peace of God, which transcends our understanding, protect your heart and your mind, through Christ Jesus. Continued prayers for peace...
Shelby Hall
December 31, 2013
Wish I could have had the chance to know Heidi as an adult. I was a big fan as a child, watching her perform. I have the pleasure of knowing Kathie and David and hope they find peace very soon.
Kathi Roe
December 31, 2013
Kathie, David and family
I am extremely saddened to hear about the loss of your daughter Heidi. I know that you will always remember all the wonderful moments she shared with you and others. She is tucked inside your hearts forever and will always be with you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Siobhan McCarthy
December 30, 2013
There are no words that can expess the sadness of this news. Heidi, we were best friends for many years and your kindness and fun memories will live with me forever. If only you really knew all of the amazing things people saw within you. I just wish I could give you a big hug. We are all so blessed to have had you in our lives. Kathy and David, I wish I could mend your pain. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Terry and Michele Frye
December 30, 2013
David, Kathie and family,
We are so sorry to hear this news. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Terry and Michele Frye
December 30, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Kathleen Archacki
December 29, 2013
I was so saddened to hear of Heidi's passing. I remember her from the Pa hospital I worked at....she was always friendly and caring. So accomplished at such a young age. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.
Sam Lloyd
December 29, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with your family I remember how great it was to be an athletic trainer with her and Sunland many years ago.
Alice Moore
December 29, 2013
I am so very sorry to hear this. My thoughts are prayers are with you during this time of grief.
Vince Nadalini
December 29, 2013
Michele, Dave, and Kathy, and family.
I am heartbroken for all of you. I can only pray that you will find peace and cherish the memories you made together.
May God rest her soul, and comfort yours.
Summer St.Clair Gipson
December 28, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Heidi's passing. I knew her through the competitive world of gymnastics and always admired her. She was such a beautiful and talented girl! My heart and prayers go to the family!
Kathy Copeland
December 28, 2013
Dave, Kathy & Family; So sorry to hear of the loss of your beautiful Heidi. Wishing you comfort and love at this most difficult time.
Kathy Johnson Clarke
December 28, 2013
This was absolutely heartbreaking news to receive. I immediately thought back to the young, talented, energetic spirit whose bright smile and big, blonde hair made her standout out even more. Athletic and bright, kind and caring! I'm grateful for the times I was fortunate enough to do the television coverage for meets she competed in and will never forget the bright light she was on the floor! My condolences to everyone who knew and loved Heidi, especially her family who had to say goodbye far too soon! RIP Heidi!
Doni Bennett
December 28, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.
Tricia Nicastro-Czosnyka
December 27, 2013
I am so sad to hear this news! Absolutely heartbreaking! Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Elisabeth Bergt
December 27, 2013
Heave has another angel. Rest in peace, Heidi, and know that you are missed.
Teresa Conway
December 27, 2013
So many tears have shed today for the kiss of this beautiful person...rIp Heidi
December 27, 2013
Heidi was a wonderful athlete… but a better person… great talent, wonderful personality… so smart… she stood above because of her character… this is a horrific loss for so many…i wish all of you could have met her and experienced her unique character… this was a treasure in the gymnastics family… so sad for this tragic loss… God Bless her family and friends...
Katie Sarber
December 27, 2013
Such a talented gymnast. I admired her as a teenager, watching her at meets in Arizona as a level 8. Will never forget her amazing bar routine. I am so sorry for your loss.
Karen Harman
December 27, 2013
Kathy and Dave,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May the love of family and friends help sustain you through this difficult time.
Rhonda Schwandt
December 27, 2013
When a member of our gymnastics family passes it affects us all. What a sad loss we have endured...Prayers to those close to her and her loved ones...RIP Heidi...
December 27, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time....many memories.....love, The Lekan family
Pam Evans
December 27, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. As a long time coach at Arizona Sunrays, I have talked about Heidi many times over the years, especially since she is on the mural on the wall doing her huge bar release. I never had the opportunity to coach her, but I did judge her quite a few times. What a beautiful and talented young lady. She will be missed.
Margo Nicastro
December 27, 2013
Kathy & Dave, my sincere sympathy. I shall keep you in my prayers, to be blessed with God's healing grace. Love to you both. Margo
Heather Campbell
December 27, 2013
Heidi was a light that shined bright. We will miss your flame.
Jennie Lozano (Hill/Carver)
December 27, 2013
Such a sad moment that is just devastating to all of us who spent those years with a vibrant and carefree spirit. I only have good memories of Heidi and the days in the gym. I got back in touch with her via FB when she was in NY and I was thrilled to see her success.
It's definitely heartbreaking to see this and just know she's gone.
My prayers are with you in your time of grief. I pray for Heidi's soul, may it be at rest now.
With love.
Quin Shannon
December 27, 2013
RIP Heidi. You were an exceptional young lady. The world was a better place when you were here and is a sadder place now that you are gone.
December 27, 2013
Kathy and Dave,
I am so sorry for your loss. May the comfort of friends and family help you through this difficult time.
Mary Hoefner
Connie Witte
December 27, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
April Frost
December 27, 2013
I'm so sorry to hear of Heidi's passing. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jake Jacobson
December 27, 2013
She was a fan favorite at Mizzou's Cat Classic. I was shocked at the news of her death. God Bless!
Rocket Robinson
December 27, 2013
i am so sorry to hear of heidi passing. i am in shock!!We met online and ive followed her life through medical school.she was such a beautiful and talented individual.Heidi had a heart of gold ,always will to do for others before doing for herself.Heidi was someone we all should taken a look at on how to be a wonderful human being ,in the eyes of the lord.heidi i always said one day i would meet you and give you a big hug...dont count that promise out....its just have to be with a pair of wings on...im so sad from this.sleep with the angels my friend...you will be sadly missed
Wendy Pinkerton
December 27, 2013
My sincere condolences. Heidi had such a wonderful personality and her compassion overflowed to everyone she spoke to. Heidi had great leadership while attending ATSU-KCOM and working with the student organizations. She will be missed. Know her smile was catching.
Aimee Burnam
December 27, 2013
Heidi and I went to elementary school together and she was always very kind! I remember being at her house many times and was fortunate to watch her compete in gymnastics as well. She was well loved by everyone she met! I am so sorry to the Hornbeek family. You are in the thoughts and prayers of many people! RIP Heidi
December 26, 2013
We are so very sorry for your loss. My wife and I have very fond memories of Heidi as a competitive gymnast. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Don & Patrice McPherson
Tori Hauser (Bishop)
December 26, 2013
Heidi was a childhood and high school friend. Even though we lost touch I've always been proud to have known her.
Amy "Kronick" Thomas
December 26, 2013
Heidi and I grew up in the gymnastics world together. I remember hitting my head on either the ceiling fan or ceiling when sleeping on the top bunk during sleepovers. We traveled together in college, got silly together, and studied together (although she was WAY smarter than I ever was). The world lost an amazing, beautiful, and talented individual. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of her family and friends. Rest in Peace Heidi!!!
Davita Solter
December 26, 2013
A beautiful young lady who passed way too early. May the Hornbeeks find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Kirk Sibley
December 26, 2013
To the Hornbeek family: on behalf of the UA alum that comprised the UA spirit squad (cheerleaders, Wilbur and Wilma) of the 90s, we extend our huge condolences to the family of one of our own. Our job was given to us to support our heroes, the student athletes of the university of Arizona during our tenure, and to give visibility to special people like Heidi. During that time these people became our own family of friends and we have often taken for granted that these larger than life people like Heidi, and all of those in our own lives are not here forever. Never would we have imagined someone so sweet and brilliant, gifted and talented as Heidi would be with us for such a short time. We are saddened for this shocking loss of such a dear person. The news of this has touched us and many of the student athlete alum community. Many condolences and prayers from all of us during this difficult time.
-UA spirit squad alum
December 26, 2013
Gone too soon sweet girl. Wildcat for Life.
Randy & Judy Todaro
December 26, 2013
Dear Dave and Kathy we are so very sad to hear of Heidi's passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
December 26, 2013
To the Hornbeek Family; Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We have great memories of your family including watching Heidi do her gymnastic routines during recess at OLPH. We are so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort at this time. Know that we are thinking of you.
Love, The Clark Family (Tim, Rita, Patrick, Christopher and Megan)
Sue Williams
December 26, 2013
Kathie and David, My heart is breaking for you and your family. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Heidi. May God comfort and bless you.
Chris Pinette
December 26, 2013
My condolences to her family. I met Heidi as a freshman at Ironwood in English class. I could not believe that one person could be that beautiful, intelligent, and just an all around good person in one package, but Heidi was. I had not spoken to Heidi since freshman year of college but I always remembered how amazing she was. RIP Heidi
Ed and Pat Frost
December 26, 2013
Kathy and family, We were so very sorry to learn of the passing of your precious Heidi. We hope that the treasured memories help bring comfort to you all. We are sorry we cannot be with you at this time. Love, Ed and Pat Frost
Lissa Cuellar
December 26, 2013
May God's peace embrace you all. Our prayers are with you all too.
Jolene Jaycox
December 26, 2013
I am so sorry to hear about Heidi. She was like another little sister to me as she drove Hillary and I crazy with my younger sister Melissa. I will always think of her in her ballet costume with all the feathers all over it the time she was a bird in a dance routine. She had a mischievous spirit and an infectious laugh. My thoughts and prayers to Hillary, Kathy , David and all those who loved her.
M Ruhlman
December 26, 2013
My prayers to Heidi's family. She was a remarkable young lady. Her talent in the classroom and as an elite athlete was exceptional, yet it was always overshadowed by her gracious nature and the kindness she extended to others. Heidi had a gentle spirit, she was humble, and her goodness touched all of us.
I will miss her.
Beth Collins
December 26, 2013
Kathy
I am so saddened to hear of Heidi's passing! You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am praying for you that somehow God will give you the strength to deal with this loss! I remember the stories you shared with me about Heidi's accomplishments and how proud you were of her. I hope that those memories will give you strength and peace in the days ahead! God bless you and your family in the days ahead! I will not forget to pray for you!
December 26, 2013
The world has lost a precious soul. And Heaven has gained another angel. Rest In Peace Heidi.
With love, Mary Wright, Utah.
Dianne Henry
December 26, 2013
Dear Kathy,
I just learned of Heidi's passing from Susan Hammel. I am so very, very sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my uppermost thoughts and prayers. Although I never met Heidi, I heard of and about her often from friends at Copperwood. All glowing remarks regarding her sweet spirit, bubbly personality, beauty, and many accomplishments. I remember your proud and smiling face when you spoke of her. May our dear Lord give you the strength and grace to face the days ahead and may He grant you peace.
Much love and prayers,
Dianne Henry
(I will always be indebted to you for helping me get a teaching position in PUSD.)
Phebe Lashmet
December 26, 2013
We are so saddened to learn of Heidi's death. She was our great niece. Our deepest sympathy to all of the family. May she rest in peace. Such a beautiful girl. Love and prayers, Uncle Pat and Aunt Muffet
Jeff L
December 26, 2013
About four years ago, I was sitting at UPENN's Animal Hospital waiting for my dog, Abby, to be released. A woman walked in with her dog and she admitted the little furry creature. After sitting down, the receptionist called out, "Ms. Hornbeek." My ears immediately perked up in amazement.
I was a gymnast growing up and have been a die-hard fan for my entire life. I knew of Heidi's gymnastics career from magazines and TV and watched her incredible NCAA career whenever I had the chance. Her combination of explosiveness and artistry were remarkable.
After Heidi spoke with the receptionist, I leaned over and asked if she was THE Heidi Hornbeek. I might have totally shocked/surprised/scared her--here we were, some 15+ years after her career and some random guy in Philadelphia recognizes her? I explained how I knew of her and we chatted for a bit. From what I recall, she shared that she was temporarily living in Philadelphia to finish her studies in medical school.
Just a couple of short hours later, I was faced with the impossible decision of having to keep my very sick dog alive or put her down. I chose and went through with the latter. I returned to the reception area in tears, unable to gather any thoughts or have any clarity. Heidi saw my emotional state and she too, burst into tears. I waved goodbye and went outside to catch some air.
That was by far the toughest day of my now 38 years. But no matter how tough, I always look back with a bit of a smile and it's because of my interaction with Heidi that day. She was the bright spot of a very dark day.
My thoughts and prayers to her family and loved ones. She was a true champion.
G BG
December 26, 2013
i am sorry for your loss. she was very inspiring to watch as a gymnast for her great spirit and skill.
December 26, 2013
Please accept our deepest sympathies at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dennis and Jan Thomas
Katie Dickinson
December 26, 2013
I knew Heidi through competitive club gymnastics in AZ. Then became reacquainted with her in the OR when she became a general surgeon. My condolences to her family. She will be missed by all of her Arizona gymnastics family!!
Ron Gaber
December 26, 2013
I was fortunate to know Heidi while she attended medical school in Kirksville, MO. I was the Dean of Students and we were so proud of her choosing the founding school of osteopathic medicine. She soon became a student leader that did positive things for a lot of people...and later a caring and compassionate physician. My memories of her bring smiles. May she always be remembered for her hard work ethic and willingness to reach out and help others. May she rest in peace and may all who know her celebrate her position at the alter of her God!
Tracey Wishert
December 26, 2013
So sorry to hear of Heidi's passing. She was an amazing person who inspired many young gymnasts among other people. She will be sorely missed. Rest in peace Heidi.
Kelly Reno
December 26, 2013
So sad to see this...Heidi and my sister Melissa Reno were in the same class in gradeschool @ OLPH and Hilary and i went to OLPH and Ironwood together....my heart goes out to her family and loved ones....
brett kwitkin
December 26, 2013
R.I.P Heidi Hornbeek. Such a great person. You will be missed. Way to young to go...:( my condolences to the hornbeek family.. good memories and good times Heidi... Such a beautiful person with the greatest smile.. the room would light up whenever you walked in.. its a sad sad day. Gone but never forgotten!!!
Tara Baptist
December 26, 2013
I remember Heidi from her childhood; celebrating many holidays our families shared. I will miss you, Heidi. Rest in Peace and much Love and Light to you and the family.
Julius Holt
December 26, 2013
Ok, please tell me that this is not true. This young lady was very talented athletically and academically my heart is broken and everything I was doing this very moment just came to a STOP! I'm praying for the family and for Heidi's soul that she may rest peaceful with the Angels in heaven. I will always remember Heidi as a kind and appreciative young lady with beautiful blonde hair and a strong smile. I remember receiving a thank you card from Heidi after walking with her to meet with a college dean about her major. It was a short walk but we learned a lot about each other and the next day she sent me a card expressing how much that walk across the U of A campus meant to her. I will miss you Heidi. “ U of A Gym Cat Academic Counselor”
December 26, 2013
I am so sad to hear that Heidi has passed. My deepest condolences to her family. She is beautiful and sweet inside and out. Heidi and I lost touch after I left U of A. My daughter recently started gymnastics at Arizona Sunrays and I have thought of her often recently.
Tina Cesta
December 26, 2013
I am so very sorry to hear of Heidi's passing. She was an amazing person in every way. My deepest sympathy goes out to Heidi's family. She will be greatly missed and forever in my heart.
Melissa Jaycox Lopez
December 26, 2013
Kathy, David & Hilary,
I wish there was something, anything I could say to ease the pain, sorrow and loss you are experiencing right now. Heidi is in so many of my childhood memories, our sleepovers, dance recitals, swimming, laughing, experiencing so many wonderful times. I am praying that the angels open their loving arms to embrace her, and please know that you all are in my continued thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Melissa (Jaycox) Lopez
Matt K
December 26, 2013
Heidi was a very engaging person who was always humble about her past gymnastic accomplishments. She had a great smile and an infectious laugh. She treasured her opportunity to help others as an aspiring surgeon. She wil be missed. From her fellow Kcom/atsu colleagues, may she rest in peace
Ronald and Nancy Maty
December 26, 2013
We are so sorry to hear of Heidi's passing. Heidi and our daughter Katy were on the USA team for the World University Games in 1995 and they competed at the club level. Our prayers are with her family.

Jamie S Johnson, DO
December 26, 2013
The most wonderful and talented young woman that I ever met - and a great friend. I will sooo miss you Heidi!! Love you always!
Jessica Oxley Perea
December 26, 2013
I will always remember waking up in her loft bed at sleepovers and hitting my head on the ceiling and then running downstairs at jumping back and forth between the pool and hot tub. She was an amazing friend and person and my heart breaks for you all. Your family is in my prayers.
Andrea Lowrey
December 26, 2013
To Heidi's family and friends - my deepest condolences on this tragic news. Heidi & I went to Ironwood together. She is a beautiful person with a huge heart who will be missed by so many. Such a sad loss.
December 26, 2013
So very, very sorry to hear of Heidi's passing. Not only a terrific young lady but one of the greatest Wildcats ever. Anyone who got to know Heidi was so much better for that. A great loss. Bless her wonderful family....
Jim Livengood
December 26, 2013
Kathy,David & family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all....God bless you and may He continue to keep you in His loving embrace! ? Rocky & Joanie Racanelli
Becky Greene
December 26, 2013
I am heartbroken over the loss of Heidi. I have so many memories that flood back on me of our days at UA: standing in the corner for her first pass on floor -- oh, that floor routine; one of my favorites of all time. I remember her beautiful smile and big blue eyes. I remember her driven, feisty attitude. I remember her goofiness. I remember her warmth. I remember tuna fish with ketchup and mustard for snack??? :) Oh, Heidi, your fellow gymnasts love you and are devastated by this news. To the Hornbeek family, you are in my prayers.
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