Heather Elliott

Elliott, Heather K. (Wendelken) Heather passed away on February 29, 2016, after a long battle with cancer, peacefully at home, surrounded by family and friends. Heather was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, and attended St. John Baptist Diocesan High School in West Islip, New York. She graduated from University of Arizona with a B.A. in Education. She moved to Reno in 1975. Later in life, she completed an M.P.A. at the University of Nevada, Reno, with honors. Heather became politically active in the 1980's. She spearheaded political campaigns and was dedicated to improving people's lives, particularly women and children. She became an active member of Washoe County Democratic Party. All of the party members and candidates praised her energy, intelligence and tenacity. Heather started a career with the State of Nevada in 1992 and was quickly and repeatedly promoted. She retired as ASO (chief financial officer) for Peace Officers' Standards and Training (POST) where she prepared and directly defended budget authorizations with the legislature. She will be remembered for her dedication and professionalism. Heather's loves in life were many. First and foremost, she loved her family. She especially loved being around her children and grandchildren at Christmas, when she always enjoyed setting a magazine-worthy table for holiday meals. Heather also loved the outdoors, from skiing with her father as a child and being swim instructor to camping, fishing, and riding Harleys. She loved a good party and was a dedicated friend. She will be fondly remembered for being unabashedly outspoken, with a quick wit and an infectious smile. Heather was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Lucy Gene Wendelken, and her brother, Lawrence. Surviving family members are her husband, Joseph Rooney; her sons, Benjamin and Derek Elliott and Joseph Rooney III; as well as four grandchildren. Her family, along with her large group of dedicated friends, will miss her terribly. May she rest in peace. A memorial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 19, at Walton's Funerals and Cremations on 875 W. Second Street, Reno, NV 89503.