Heidi Johnson

I can't believe it's taken me this long to find out. I'm so sorry that we didn't stay in touch after we lived together in Minneapolis. I've tried to find her but never did. I was just looking at old photos of a camping trip we did together with my young daughter Kaeton at the time and was missing her. Now I see this and my grief is fresh. How? All my love to her sister and mother who I met in 1991.

The world is not better without you! Love and miss you.

Hi Heidi! 9/6/2009
It's your Birthday today....We miss you so much. Our love for you is forever........Dennis Johnson, Carolyn
Johnson, Gretchen Johnson Boekeloo,
David Boekeloo, and Cooper Boekeloo.

To all of Heidi's family & friends. I've been thinking about her a lot these past few days. A trip to Building 50 last week brought many memories back of going to see Heidi in her office in the afternoons while I was up north working on classes. Her view of the world through her camera lens will always speak to me. I wish you all well.

A year later and all we have left of Heidi is this page and her photographs.

Missing you.

Thinking of Heidi this week, missing her. Grieving the loss of all the beauty she brought through her personality and art. I wish her peace. I send my prayers & well wishes to her family.

To Cal, Denny, Gretchen, Coop and David, We think of Heidi and all of you so often. We shed alot of tears because we all have lost her. Our tears are for all of you. I have this thought that it would be so neat to know Heidi has met her grandma, Marie Settles who died suddenly Oct. 20, 1946. (Also at age 44). We love all of you very much. Aunt Cindy, Uncle Bill, Barb and Liv, Bill jr, Renee and Kaitlyn and Sam

MISS U!!!
Hope you are at peace......

luv U......Terri-Anne

I just learned of Heidi's death after googling her name. We were very close friends the years she lived in Minneapolis. We parted when she left, and we did not keep in touch. However, her photos hang in my home & workplace, so I cannot help but think of her often. I was one of her models while she was just learning & experimenting with infrared photography. I visited her twice in MI, and was taken by the beauty of the area she was from & returned to. I wished we could have reconnected and enjoyed each other again now as women in midlife. She was a hearty, down-to-earth, jovial spirit. What an enormous loss.

Dennis Gretchen Dave,

I'm so sorry for your loss. I just found out this moment when I went to her website. I'm still in shock. Heidi was and is very special to me. She was a gentle person.

Dearest Heidi,

Your photographs of Building 50 are on my wall... and they make me smile. Thank you so much for leaving such an amazing legacy of compassion and beauty.

-Tyne

Rest in peace Heidi...I will always remember you...you taught me a lot about finding my inner strength many years ago and I have thought of you often since - I never got the chance to say thank you.

Dear Heidi,
It's April 4,2009, eight (8) months
since you have been gone!I think about you every day. I miss your laughter, smiling face, photography, good deeds, telephone calls, Emails, little post notes, dvds of Cooper, and bigger than
life personality. Every morning I look up to the sky and ask, "Heidi, where are you? Give me a sign your okay." Often times, I see a bird appear winging its way along the water's edge...giving me a
sign of eternal life for Heidi; resting in peace. God Bless,
Dad

Heidi~
Your book Angels in the Architecture is flying off the shelves at Borders. You would be proud!! I can't help but cry everytime I look at the book and know that your talent stopped with this book!! You had so much more to share!
I miss you very much...say HI to my dad for me....
luv U.....Terri-Anne

Heidi, I miss you. I'm sorry we lost touch over the years. You'll always be in my heart. I love you.

Dear Heidi,
I am reading your book, Angels In The Architecture, this morning. It brought tears to my eyes.........I miss
you so much. Love always, Dad.

Thinking of Heidi today and sending my thoughts to her family. I am drawn to her photo "A Storybook Lane" which hangs in my home. The beauty of the image she captured so artfully speaks to me: mighty trees creating a welcoming canopy and the lane leading far in the distance. I am happy Heidi shared her unique vision with us. She is missed.

Hardly a day goes by that I don't think of Heidi. I will never forget the short but beautiful times we spent together. She turned a page and opened up a new world for me

I still miss you.

Thanks for everything Heidi.

It was with a great deal of sadness that I learned recently of Heidi's passing. She was one of my remarkable students in the LCC Photo Program, and I was so proud when she sent me a copy of her book a few years ago along with a heartfelt "thanks". Heidi was such a kind soul, with a passion for life and photography. The book stands as a fitting testament to her artistry, and she will be missed by all fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

Uncle Denny, Gretchen and Aunt Cal,
May God give you the strength for this Christmas season to remember and feel Heidi's Sweet Spirit. She can shed Grace upon us from where she is. You are all held near in my heart this season.
Hugs, Kathy Jo

The holidays are here and I am sure your family will miss you very much~I hope that they can take the memories and have those moments give them comfort and joy!!! I miss U!
God Bless your family during this holiday season.

Dear Heidi,
It's December 4, 2008, since you departed from this earth on August 4, 2008. Three months have elasped. We miss you so much! It's
so painful not to see your smiling face or not receiving your daily Emails to us. I still cannot compre-
hend your gone! It's just a bad dream. We think about you every day
and our love for you will grow and grow until we can meet again.
Love you, Denny, Ann, Gretchen,Dave,Cooper,Carolyn and
Helen.

Dear Dennis,
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Heidi's death. There are many fun and loving memories we have of her presence in our lives
and
for that, I'm grateful. I know all who knew her will miss her very much.
Beth & Dave Pennington

To Heidi's family,

I was shocked and saddened today when I attempted to email Heidi, to find that she is gone.

I am a writer about to have my novel published at U of M Press. I had talked to Heidi about using some of her photography for front or back cover. I met her at one of her tours and we exchanged numerous email correspondences. I am still interested in using one or her photos if the Press agrees.

She was incredibly talented; I just loved her work. I have her book of course.

I don't yet know business details at U of M Press, but if someone can email me a contact no. [email protected], I will contact you if there is possibility of using her work for the novel.

My love and prayers go to you all.

Lynn Kimball Fay

Dear Heidi,
It's October 12, 2008, and I have been thinking about you. I miss your Emails and telephone calls that I
would receive about what's going on in your life.The pain is still unbearable to think you are not with
us. There is such a void in my life. I
pray and know in my heart that you
are resting in peace.
Love you so much, Dad.

Dear Dennis & Ann,
May you find comfort in each memory of your Heidi. Your loss is of such magnitude that only you can know its depth.
As parents and grandparents, Wally and I, feel in part your hurt. We do care, Dennis; please know this. May you find comfort in knowing that your Heidi touched the lives of so many with her presence and abilities.
We send to you and Ann our heartfelt condolences.
Most Sincerely,

To Our Dear Denny,
With sympathy and caring, to let you know I have been praying for you and all the Johnson family. Human losses seem so senseless at times. Perhaps it is to pull us all closer to God who loves us and cares for us and knows best.
Always your friend,

Dear Denny,
Nothing I can say will eliminate the pain, but, hopefully knowing your friends' thoughts, prayers and love are with you will help to ease your heavy heart.

Dear Denny,
Bill and I were shocked and very, very sad to hear the news of your daughter. We both send you and your family our deepest sympathy.
Please, Denny, let me know if there is anything at all that I can do to help aleviate your loss.
With love, Bill & Claudia

Dear Dennis & Ann,
You can be so proud of her career as a recognized photographer and as a teacher. Proud, too, that so many companies desired to engage her talents. I particularly was impressed with her imagination to conceive of the idea for "Angels In The Architecture" where she not only preserved the history of the asylums for the mentally ill but also stirred compassion for those unfortunates.
Accept my heaftfelt condolences.
Prof. Harold

I was saddened to hear of Heidi's passing. We were classmates at Frankfort High class of 1981. Although I had not seen her in the 27 years that have passed I can close my eyes at this very moment and see her smile and hear her laugh. My deepest condolences from my family to yours in your time of sorrow.

Dear Denny, Cal and Gretchen & Family,
So very sorry that it has taken me this long to write in Heidi's Guest book.We were all so blessed to have a Darling Heidi. I was so happy for Denny and Cal and their two adorable bright lil' toe head' babydolls.
What a wonderful contribution Heidi made to this world.
My signed copy of Angels in the Architecture will always be a treasure to me, with her dedication to a very special Aunt. Heidi gave the world a true lasting gift that will be treasured by so many.
You will always be in my heart and thoughts.
Aunt Mary

Guest book - Family members for Heidi's funeral dated August 9, 2008.
Dennis L. Johnson West Palm Beach
Carolyn G. Johnson Benzonia
Gretchen Johnson Boekeloo Beulah
David Boekeloo Beulah
Helen Boekeloo Beulah

Guest book entries for Heidi's Funeral dated August 9, 2008.
Lisa & Kelsey Prielipp
Bob Joe Frankfort
Marilyn H. Frankfort
Maureen Hogan Waterford, Mi.
Janet Settles Buchalla Traverse
Jack & Karen Ross Traverse
Corwin & Leah Beulah
Ceceilia Huebner Onekama
Jared & Kari MacDonald Benzonia
Becky DeVries Honor
Jonathan Clark Beulah
Jerry & Barb Heimax Beulah
Tricia Swenson Interlocken
Kristin Celeste Hills Traverse
Ellen Herring Honor
Kimberly & Bradley Kinnan Beulah
Shari Waara Benzonia
Jay Watson Beulah
Sylvia Shawana Beulah
Jeff & Janet Hessler Frankfort

Guest book entries for Heidi's funeral dated August 9th, 2008.
Tom P. Waclawski Traverse City
Linda Hick & Kristine Beulah
Terri Anne Thomas (Mogolis) Traverse
Elizabeth Case Benzonia
Billie Gorski Cadillac
Althea Petritz Beulah
Signe Knddy Benzonia
Christana & San Dupe Honor
Karyn Thorr Thompsonville
Mike Hogan Linden, Mi.
Ray Minervini Traverse City
Mini Minervini Traverse City
Ted & Kelly Schendel Honor
Carol Penfold Palo Alto, CA.
Haper Grudzien Benzonia
Jerry Brace Beulah
Wes Blizzard Beulah
Jim & Val Posbiezoki Benzonia
Susie Vigland Benzonia
Mike & Kathy Ross Beulah
B. Smith Traverse City
Bob Wilhelm Traverse City
Art & Maureen Jeannot Honor
Kathy Mattson Interlochen
Ashley Giglio Benzonia
Danielle Moss Hart, Mi.

Guest book entries for Heidi's funeral dated August 9th, 2008.
Phil & Anna Boman Benzonia
Rhonda Nugent Frankfort
Sarah Thoms Arcadia
Brooke Gray Lansing
Rebecca Hall & Family Beulah
Mary Pitcher Beulah
Erich Schlueter Beulah
Laurie Figley Beulah
Nancy & Michael Call Beulah
Cindy Shapiro Beulah
Susan Koenig Beulah
Phil Downs Beulah
Vicki Carpenter Beulah
M/M Paul Schendel & John Benzonia
Sandi Marks Traverse City
Kim Weaver & Family Honor
Pat, Edie & Emily Gray Frankfort
Mary Hogan LaPointe Wyandotte
Michael Czeryba Frankfort
Beth Holman Beulah
Nikki Darrow Grand Marais
Peter & Pearl Brown Traverse City
Ron & Ruth Nugent Frankfort
Jeff Bihlman Interlochen
Suzi Kamp Mills Frankfort
Troy McKinley Frankfort

Guest book entries for Heidi's funeral dated August 9, 2008.
Mike & Patti Rohn Frankfort
Nancy Tondu Frankfort
Tim Burke Benzonia
Morgan Ann Timmer California
Jeredith Ann Timmer California
Colleen P. Madison Hts, Mich.
Mary Grimmi Michigan
Cleone Papineau Traverse City
Rory & Michele Heckman Beulah
Mary Hoyt Beulah
Ann & Jim R. Honor
Joann Kittendorf Beulah
C. Walton & Mike Kanniainen Beulah
Barbara Sanchez Beulah
Sherry Lundquest Beulah
Elzabeth Barientor Beulah
Rosie & Greg Miller Honor
Russ & Sue Mix Elberta
Pam Schneider Benzonia
Jennifer Albrecht Benzonia
Lynn Loney Mann Beulah
Marce & Winnie Keillor Frankfort
Eva Miguel Roma Honor
Chris Miller Traverse City
Pam Lorenz Beulah
John & Martha Papineau Frankfort
Roger & Lee Mix Frankfort
Cindy Alban Beulah
Mary Walters Frankfort
Brenda Ott Ada, Mich.
Joanne & Richard Bnowl Frankfort
Kathleen & David Crossman Beulah

Guest Book Entries for Heidi's Funeral dated August 9th, 2008.
Brian Randall Vileta Beulah
Vicki Mix Elberta
Steve & Joan Johnson Cadillac
Dr.& Mrs. R.W. Wagner Benzonia
Karen Dennis Benzonia
Mark Van DePerre Benzonia
Kathy Ely Beulah
Cathie & Dick Herrick Lake City
Sonja & Dave Reitan Frankfort
Bill & Cindy Schnarr Honor
Helen Boekeloo Beulah
Walter Johnson Cadillac
Donald Ruff Frankfort
Karen Kaskinen Obrien Walker
Mike Kaskinen Beulah
Chris Cole & girls Beulah
Marty & Shannon Altman Cadillac
Ashley Dansbery Beulah
Adrienne Hoxie Traverse City
Cindy Dansby Beulah
Don & Amy Jones Frankfort

Heidi~
I think of you as I always have.....
Miss you as I always have......
The sun is shining, I am sure you are smiling!!

Heidi's family,
Please know that you are all in my heart right next to Heidi, where she will always be. I had not spoken to her in a while and just found out about our loss. I am stunned. Words cannot express how sorry I am. I cannot imagine this world without her and selfishly my own. But I do believe she is alive in our hearts and that we will meet again. If there is anything I can do, please don’t hesitate to let me know.

I met and worked with Heidi at Borders where we became fast friends and kindred spirits. We remained very good friends. Her friendship was such a blessing...little did I know how fleeting. She always inspired me to create, love and learn. She was always there whenever I needed a friend. We both battled depression and gave each other love, encouragement and strength when we could. We had a few adventures together and I was fortunate to accompany her to the State Hospital when she captured some of her earlier images. I was privileged to be in one of them, ‘Study Figure 1’. Heidi was with us when my husband and I were married; she was our witness and took our photos as a gift. My husband, John and our kids loved her…she was family. Heidi had a wise, sweet soul that touched everyone she met. She was an angel on earth and now she can watch over those that need her. She has forever changed the lives she's touched. Her book educates others about mental illness, as was her wish, and her photos share the world as she saw it…sometimes sad and forgotten but always full of light and beauty. Talented, loving, smart, compassionate, strong, sensitive and giving...I strive to be all that she was.

Dear Heidi,
Hey, Sweet Girl! My heart aches and is so full of love for you. I cannot believe you are gone. I would give anything to see your beautiful face again! With joy and pain I reflect on our times together. I am so sorry I lost touch. I thought of you every day and always will. Time gets away and before you know it, it’s tomorrow. I only wish you were in my every tomorrow. You left too soon, but I hope you are happy and healthy where you are. I will tuck you away in my heart and hold you tight…forever! I miss you and love you. I will see you again soon!
Love Always~Erin

Dear Heidi,
I miss and think about you every day. Love your forever. Deager Bear.

More cards & flowers for Heidi..Thank you so much!
Pastor Dan Ingersol Michigan
Chyna LaMonte Florida
Helen & Wally Hickman Florida
Julie & Mike Lee Darjeeling, India
Cynthia Fletcher Florida
Irma & Hank McCall Florida
Myra & John Morrison Florida
Ron Schwab Florida
Marcia Kay Chellis Florida
Ted Reiner Connecticut
Dr. & Mrs. Schinabeck Florida
Danny Brown Florida
John Smith, Jr. Florida

Thank you so much for the beautiful cards in remembrance of Heidi....
Rosemary & Larry Waldo Michigan
Marjorie & Harold Heine Pennsylvania
Cathy Searing Michigan
Betty Stanfield North Carolina
Christine Raywood Florida
Kathleen & Rick Carrozza New York
Mary & Bob Rodenberg Florida
Carole & Dan Pichney New York
Margie & Buster Logsdon Florida
Hella & Ron Buch Florida
Ginny & Bob White North Carolina
Robin Grubman Florida
Debbi & Craig Stanfield Florida
Barbara Fink Virginia
Kim & Jamie Winspear North Carolina
Brenda & Joe Winningham NC
Janice Schultze Florida
Royal Poinciana Chapel Florida
(Dr. Robert Norris & Paul Waterhouse
Chancel Flowers for Heidi 8/24/08
Dr. Geo & Adria Roush Connecticut
Carole & Dan Baker Montana

In silent prayer, we look for strength to help us through the tragic loss of Heidi Johnson. With her birthday today, we all extend to her so much praise & admiration as our thoughts &
memories will be with you forever!
Denny, Ann, Kent, Claudia, Ron, Roland, and Ted.

I am also remembering Heidi on her birthday. It has comforted me to read all the posts here from all of the people whose lives were touched by this amazing woman.

The Dennis Johnson Family,
We celebrate Heidi's Birthday today!
Our flowing tears will turn into a smile when we know she had lived.
All our love.

To the family of Heidi Johnson:

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

I regret never having the pleasure of meeting Heidi, but was drawn to her work in Angels in the Architecture.

I am a student of history and preservation, and the only child of a Handley and a Buckelew.

My prayers and thoughts of peace go out to you all.

In Loving Memory
Heidi Johnson
On the job site
Sept 6, 1963-Aug 4, 2008
We love & miss you. Your are
always in our hearts.
Dennis Johnson, Carolyn Johnson,
Gretchen Johnson Boekeloo,
David Boekeloo, & Cooper Boekeloo

Dear Johnson Family,

My name is Tyne Kreiner and I had the pleasure of not only knowing Heidi, but having her take my seniors pictures in the building we both loved - Building 50. I met her, by chance, back when I was in junior high visiting the asylum. Heidi was there taking pictures for her book. As an outgoing seventh-grader I walked up to a lovely woman with the camera and introduced myself. It was like we knew each other in a past life and we literally "clicked".

After years of e-mails back and forth, she was the only person who understood my passion for the asylum and therefore, the only person I wanted taking my senior pictures. In 2004, my mother and I drove five hours to get to the asylum for my senior pictures. I spent the whole day with Heidi in that building - laughing, talking, and enjoying life together through sharing our passions. Years later, I brought my boyfriend to Traverse City to share my love of the asylum with him, and had to introduce him to Heidi. Being the amazingly kind person she was, she dropped everything and gave him a tour of the building, despite the limited access granted to the public. She always went out of her way for me... and I really appreciated it.

In the short time I knew her, she brought so much life and beauty to my world. Ultimately, she left far too soon, but she will live on in my heart and in the pictures on many of my family's walls. I just wish now, I had some way of getting all of those pictures she took that day as a way to hold on to Heidi. If there is a way, please let me know.

Honestly, she is part of the fabric that makes me who I am, and I am forever going to miss her smile and the gifts she offered to the world. Our friendship was true and real, and the times I spent with her in the asylum are some of the best in my twenty-two years. Her inner beauty radiated into her relationships and into her photographs, and that is something I that I will always cherish.

I found out about her death Friday while shopping at the gallery downtown in Traverse City. I was so shocked, hurt, and felt rather lost. I mourn her death, but more than that I wish there was some way I could make it easier on you. However, as a social worker who has a future career in hospice, I know that there is no band-aid to cover up pain like this. I know that telling you I'm sorry is not enough, but you are in my thoughts and I am deeply sorry that you must experience such a great loss.

If there is anything I can do, even from down here in Ann Arbor, let me know.

Thank you for bringing Heidi into this world and sharing her personality and her gifts with the rest of the world. I am a better person for knowing her... and that makes me smile through the tears.

With Greatest Sympathy,
Tyne

Dear Friends & Neighbors,
Thank you so much for the out-pouring of cards,flowers,emails,hugs,
telephone calls, kisses & tears for a
heartfelt tribute to Heidi Johnson. On
Sept. 6, it would have been Heidi's 45
Birthday. More tears are flowing from
my eyes. Only a father can reconcile his grief. In loving memory, we love you and miss you. You are always in our hearts. Love, Dad.

Dennis,

Joyce and I send our heartfelt condolences. We Have read entries in Heidi's guest book and know we would have been blessed to have known her.

Jim and Joyce

I, unfortunately, never had the pleasure of Ms. Johnson's acquaintance, yet upon viewing her work in a gallery in traverse city last weekend I was truly mesmorized by her work. I felt such a sadness to hear of her passing; however felt confirmation of my haunting feelings of staring at the beauty through the eyes of angel. Heartfelt sympathy-jami z. fenton, mi

I was so saddened to hear of Heidi's passing. I met her through my niece and nephew who were curious of the woman with the big camera taking pictures of my horses on Eden Hill Rd. She chatted warmly with these little kids, took their pictures and left them knowing they had met a lovely talented lady.
I am so sorry for your loss.

I had been looking at her site almost every day. I am so sorry it's gone.

She was remembered at the "Michigan in Pictures" blog and at the "Traverse City" blog. Just search and you'll find other places her images live online.

Her website is down. I have no place to go.

Ride the wave, Heidi. I miss you.

What a gentle and graceful spirit Heidi shared with us. She worked as an artist in residence with my high school students in Suttons Bay and toured & mentored with us in Building 50. The kids were thrilled by her generous gift of her time and talent. We're all grateful for the time we had with her.

Dear Johnson Family,
My words can not express the feeling of loss and shock over Heidi's passing. We knew each other at LCC where we studied photography and later got reaquainted at Building 50 where we each had studios. She was always coming up with a fun photo project and delighted in photo talk over coffee at Cuppa Joe. I will miss her warm smile and conversation.

Dear Denny, and all of Heidi's family -

My heartthoughts are with you at this sad time. Please know that I am praying for you and have added your name to a two-church prayer list for further prayers. Denny, please consider the suggestion I made in my condolence note to you--I feel it would help bring closure and surcease. Meanwhile be proud of Heidi, of her accomplishments, and of her important place in your life. The love you feel for her will ever be there, as she lives on in your heart and mind, her spirit free and her importance to you never diminished. Death can rob you of her existence on this plane but can never diminish the love that existed between you AND ALWAYS WILL ENDURE. Her memory will burn bright within you always.

Warmly -
Cynthia

Dear Dennis: Was very shocked to learn of Heidi's passing via your e-mail. Unfortunately, I never had the pleasure of meeting Heidi in person, but my beloved Rosemary and I felt we knew her by reading her wonderful book, "Angles in the Architecture", which you so gratiously gave us several years ago. As I read through the many entries in the Guest Book for Heidi, it is evident that she was loved and admired by many people. May her soul rest in peace. You and the rest of your family are in my prayers.

From the Kowalski, Baker, Stehouwer, and Searing Families we'd like to wish our X-Stepsister our thoughts and prayers. Even though we haven't been in touch for a long time, we've always thought of Heidi and wished her the best.

Our love and sympathie's to Denny, Gretchen and Family.
Chris Kowalski

Dear Gretchen and Family of Heidi,
My heart and my prayers goes out to you all at this time. I loved Heidi and I always believed in her. Her unbelievable amazing talent/genius and her kind heart will be sorely missed by anyone fortunate enough to have the grace of her presence. I am so blessed to have had that gift .

Carolyn and Dennis Johnson I am so sorry for your loss. We have all lost someone really special and I will feel that loss as I look at her artwork daily in my gallery. Her stories of the state hospital and her stunning photographs have left such a wonderful sense of History of an era gone by but not forgotten thanks to Heid's efforts. Please contact me. Betty Maciejewski Watermelon Sugar Gallery.

Dear Gretchen & family ~
Our heart aches for the loss of your sweet sister, Heidi. What a great artist and talented lady!
We are sending all our love to you,

I'm so saddened to hear of Heidi's passing. My memory of her when we were kids at Crystal Lake is of a long blond haired beauty. It was always a treat to have her and Gretchen visit their grandparents there. I just ordered "Angels in the Architecture" and look forward to seeing Heidi's work. Peace be with Heidi's family and friends.

Dear Aunt Cal, Uncle Denny and Gretchen, I am so sorry for your loss. Couldn't be up there because I had just been up with mom and her loss. You're all in my thoughts and prayers.

Gretchen, Denny & Carolyn,
My heart aches for your loss.
You have lost a very talented and kind, gentle lady. She was my friend when we were oh so young, and learning about life. I have never had as good a friend, and doubt I ever will. I wish we could've kept in touch, but life is like that.
I hope your family in time will recover from this tradgic time. Her smile and beauty will always remain.
God Bless you all.

My deepest sympathies to Heidi's family and friends. I knew Heidi thru her work in Traverse City. She was such a sunny, warm person. She will be greatly missed.

We are saddened by the news of Heidi's passing. Please accept our condolences to her family.

A gentle soul and a truly creative artist whose ability to capture her unique vision was rarely paralleled.

We'll miss her madly.

Gretchen and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear about you're loss. I am keeping you all in my prayers. My deepest sympathy goes out to everyone in the family.

Gretchen and family, Carolyn and Dennis,
I am honored to have known such a wonderful person! Knowing Heidi and having worked with Heidi years ago, I chose her to do my son Derek's Senior pictures back in 2005, and am so glad I did! What a talented woman! I am very saddened for your loss and my prayers are with you! "God only cries for the living because it's the living that are left to carry on. All the Angels up in Heaven are not grieving because they're gone...There's a smile on their faces cause thery're in a better place than they've ever known."
God Bless you all, and may you see her again one day.
Karin, David and Derek Miner

I met Heidi when I worked at Trattoria Stella. She was very nice and had a wealth of knowledge about the old asylum. I have her book Angels In The Architecture. What a treasure this book is. I feel privileged to have met such a wonderful talented person. Her talents and knowledge will be missed. It is a loss for our community. My deepest condelences to her family.

Gretchen & family~

I am so sorry to hear of Heidi's passing, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.

I met Heidi while she had her studio at Bldg. 50. She was my neighbor and my friend and I will miss her so very much. Such a humble person and such an amazing talent. I consider myself lucky to have met Heidi and shared her friendship.

I was very lucky to be able to work with Heidi for my Bachelor's practicum-she was amazing, and so talented. I am so very sorry for the family. The world has lost a truly great artist.

Gretchen, my heart goes out to you at this time. Please take care, Linda Little(Poulisse)

Gretchen, My heart cries for you and your family. I send my deepest sympathy and my thoughts of peace to you today and all the days to follow.

Gretchen...I was so saddened and shocked to hear about Heidi. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your parents. Heidi had a God-given gift --her photography. Her book 'Angels in the Architecture' had a huge impact on me...my Great-Aunt Rose was one of those 'angels' who lived in Building 50. Heidi's book is on my coffee table and will remain there.
Gretchen, I am so sorry for your loss. Sincerely Lucy (McClellan) Hunter

I am truly sorry to learn of Heidi's passing. I met her in 2004 when she was so kind as to give my husband and me a tour of Building 50. She was so full of information and excitement about her book project, the building's history, and plans for transforming it, and she was so kind and encouraging about my own amateur photography work. I have her book and will treasure it. What a loss for the TC area and for art in Michigan, generally. I do have a photo I took of her at Building 50 and will gladly share it with anyone who writes to me.

Like so many others..my heart and sympathy go out to Heidi's family and friends. I enjoyed working with Heidi as we searched through photos for her "Angels ....." book in the historic archives at the old Con Foster Museum. She had a beautiful insight and a rare gift. Her unique vision of the T.C. State Hospital is one reason building 50 has been saved and the restored spires reach for the sky! It has been a joy to know Heidi! Peace, (Dee)

My sympathy & prayers to your family. I only met Heidi once at her studio in building 50,she was very friendly & showed me some of her pictures there. I wanted to meet her because my husband, Del Wilson, took her to the buildings at the state hospital so she could take the pictures for her book, he worked there for 35 years; so he had lots of information for her too. She printed his hand holding a set of old employee keys in her book "Angels in the Architecture" which he knew about but didn't get to see because he passed away in 11/02. My friend was at the book store when she was there, purchased the book for me & Heidi signed it, so it is very special to me. Also we purchased some prints of his hand & building 50 in the background, she made some note cards to sell of his hand too.We cherish these pictures & the book, she did a great job. Memories are wonderful to have until we can meet with love ones again. Take Care.

Heidi was very dear in my life. An angel in her own right. She gave THE best academic presentations to our GVSU students. She mentored them outside of the classroom. Her sensitivity was both a gift and a challenge for her. I have several signed pieces of her work...she was a joy to support. We are in her debt for her work at the TC State Hospital. I'm in shock. Wishing her family and all loved ones...love, strength and peace. - Susan and Tom

We were so shocked and saddened to learn of Heidi's passing. My husband Bruce Durazzi and I met Heidi in May when she photographed our wedding, but she has known my parents (Del & Evelyn Weliver) since working at Interlochen with them. We all felt Heidi's warmth, laughter, and generosity. We are so lucky to have known such a truly fabulous person, and even luckier that she agreed to photograph our wedding. Her work reveals such beauty of vision - of the world and the people with whom she interacted. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Phyllis Weliver, Bruce Durazzi, and Del & Evelyn Weliver

Heidi had the gift of observation and she used it well in photography. She worked for us on numerous projects and along the way I had the pleasure of many enthusiastic conversations. To Gretchen and the family, I'm so sorry for your loss. She will be missed, but her spirit will always be with us. I was one of the lucky ones to have known her.
Rich Brauer
Traverse City

I am saddened to read of Heidi's passing this morning. The community has lost a true artist.

I knew her first by her photos of Building 50. We met years ago when she was setting up a showing at Borders in TC. We met again a year later at Building 50. She escorted us on a brief photo tour of the basements and upper floors of the building. Over the next couple of years, I enjoyed meeting up with her and chatting about Building 50, etc.

I am glad to have taken a photo of her on one of the tours, capturing the "Angels in the Architecture" she so loved. And she snapped a photo of me on that first tour that I will hold dear.

My condolences go out to her family and friends. I will treasure the digital photos I have, her book and the memories she captured in her work.

I want to personally send my heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Heidi's family. I had the fortunate opportunity to have taught Heidi back in Elementary school at Platte River (5th grade). She was a wonderful student and showed definite signs of success even back then in her writing ability. I then got the chance to see Heidi again several years ago at her historical program at the State Hospital grounds in T.C. I purchased her book, "Angels in the Architecture" and was very honored to have Heidi autograph my copy and included a little personal note. I will treasure this book for a long time to come. Again, my deepest sympathy and prayers go out to Heidi's family.

Gretchen and David - I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Coop loved his Auntie Heidi so much - she will really be missed. God bless you all.

Denny, Carolyn and Gretchen,
I remember Heidi fondly as well as your entire family. I loved the 5-6 years I spent working for you at the restaurant. After recently losing my mother I understand the depth of your sorrow. I hope to attend the visition.

Heidi, Your Brilliance and Beauty will always be remembered. Our family has been truely blessed to have you.
From early childhood your bright personality and presence was always a delight. We all watched you grow into such an achiever. I will hold so dear my memories of you Dear Heidi.
We indeed will miss your smile, your
hugs, You will always be a very honored part of our family.
Kathy Jo

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

I hope you find peace in HIS hands now Heidi. Crystal will always be in your heart.

with all my love, and deepest sympathy to all of you.

I am saddened to read of Heidi's passing this morning. The community has lost a true artist.

I knew her first by her photos of Building 50. We met years ago when she was setting up a showing at Borders in TC. We met again a year later at Building 50. She escorted us on a brief photo tour of the basements and upper floors of the building. Over the next couple of years, I enjoyed meeting up with her and chatting about Building 50, etc.

I am glad to have taken a photo of her on one of the tours, capturing the "Angels in the Architecture" she so loved:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/michaelsphotos/8925553

And she snapped this of me on that first tour:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/michaelsphotos/8925102

My condolences go out to her family and friends. I will treasure the digital photos I have, her book and the memories she captured in her work.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

I first met Heidi when she had her exhibit for "Angel's in the Architecture" at Borders Books. We shared a passion for the Traverse City Asylum and all that it represented. I love photography and I admire her work. Heidi is an amazing woman and artist. I enjoyed our many chats. I visited her studio in Benzonia to where I purchased a few of her signed prints from her series of "Angel's in the architecture". One of my favorite prints is of buliding 50, this print accompanied me to Cardigan, Wales in the U.K. to where it held a place of honor during my five month visit.

Photography is the medium of the Spirit, the inner eye of our soul...for you Heidi...Love and Light always

Ms. Rene' A. Jeffries

I met Heidi in 1999 at the Manitou restaurant, where she was overheard talking about a manuscript she was putting together on the State Hospital in Traverse City. I was just starting a new job with Wayne State University Press in Detroit, so I imposed and interrupted; we ended up publishing her book, Angels in the Architecture, in 2001. It was our privilege to know and work with Heidi and we are saddened by her loss, both personally and professionally.

I extend warm hugs, thoughts & prayers at this challenging time. Heidi has left volumes of fond memories and treasures in her passion for photography that will live on and inspire forever. How fortunate your family is to have been blessed with Heidi.
Most sincerely, Mary