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Heather Mattern Obituary
NAPPANEE, Ind. - Heather Sue Mattern, age 32, of 257 N. Hartman St., Nappanee, Ind., died at 4:21 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, from injuries received in an automobile accident in Marshall County, Ind.
Heather was born March 18, 1977, in Danville, to Russell and Lutitia "Tish" Wells McMillan. She was a graduate of Westville High School where she was valedictorian of her class. She received her bachelor's degree from Olivet University and her master's degree from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science.
On May 24, 2003, she married Dustin Mattern in Gurnee at the Village Church.
She has lived in Nappanee for the last five years.
Heather is survived by her husband, Dustin Mattern; two sons, Charles "Charlie" Lawrence and Brennan Lee Mattern, both at home; her parents, Russell and Lutitia "Tish" McMillan of Westville; a brother, Adam McMillan of Westville; and her grandmothers, June Dolores Wells of Tilton and Thelma McMillan of Westville.
Friends may call Friday from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Nappanee Missionary Church Chapel. Funeral services will be Saturday at 2 p.m. EST at the church. Pastor Dave Engbrecht and Pastor Justin Lamison will officiate. Burial will be in South Union Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Heather Mattern Memorial Fund for her sons in care of Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, P.O. Box 206, Nappanee, IN 46550.
Heather was a certified physician's assistant at Goshen Family Physicians.
She was a member of Nappanee Missionary Church, where she attended Ladies' Bible Study and coached in the Upwards Basketball Program. Heather excelled in sports while in high school and college.
Heather was the daughter any mother would cherish to spend the day with making cookies and candy; the daughter any father would delight in cheering for at her volleyball games; the sister any brother would love to hang out with or even helping him to deliver papers. She was the perfect wife for her devoted husband and absolutely wonderful mommy to her precious baby boys.
Heather excelled at everything she did. She was gifted in school, in sports and in her everyday life. She was hardworking, determined, sweet and likable. She was sociable and made friends easily. She led a Christ-centered life.
For everyone whose lives she touched - her family, her in-laws, her friends, teachers, neighbors, and co-workers, Heather will be fondly remembered as a remarkable human being and one of God's most treasured children.
Memories and Condolences
for Heather Mattern
Mandy Weaver
December 8, 2009
While it's been years since highschool, I had the pleasure of playing basketball against Heather while she was a student at Westville. I can remember how much spirit she had on the court and how she loved to play the game. She had the best sportsmanship and was always very kind to even the opposing team. I was saddened to hear the news about Heather but hope that the family finds some comfort that Heather is in a better place and has left a wonderful legacy.
Dan McMillan II
December 6, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
janelle studt
December 5, 2009
I had the honors to work with Heather a year in half ago. I was her medical assistant. Heather was the sweetest most loving Physicians assistant. She had empathy, compassion and cheery personality! I loved working with her. She was a great listener and friend and good physician to my daughter. Heather set a great example for me in many ways on the job. Heather truley was a woman of Faith and will live on in her children and my heart always! My prayers continue for her husand and children and whole family May God bring you compfort and peace and much love.
Janelle Studt, Goshen
Heather (Bates) Sabalaskey
December 5, 2009
I grew up playing softball and basketball with Heather and we graduated together! Not only was she my teammate from as early as the little league years she had become a good friend...wish we had stayed in touch despite our busy lives. I am honored that I had the time with you that I did and will cherish all the memories. You are and always will be a remarkable person and you have touched my heart in so many ways.
Patricia Huffman
December 4, 2009
My prayers go out to Heather's husband and her children and her family. I was an art teacher at Westville while she went to school there. She was such a special young person and I feel honored to have known her if even for such a short time. I'm sure she will be missed by so many people.
Angel Wichtowski-McDaniel
December 4, 2009
My thought and prayers go out to Heathers family. We were classmates throughout highschool. I will always remember everytime we passed or talked, she would always have a smile on her face. She will be so deeply missed.
Marie Lewis
December 3, 2009
I'm so sorry for what has happened to your family--Just know thoughts and prayers are with you-- not much,though,to help the hurt you have to face.
Justine R
December 3, 2009
My son and I were a patient of Heathers... Words jus can't explain how wonderful she was! I drove almost an hour to get to her office. I could count on her! She has helped me with my health and also my 4 year old son! We will truely miss her! We are praying for all of your family and friends! With Love, Justine
Pam Oglesbee
December 3, 2009
I don't personally know this family but I know several extended family members. My heart is broken for all the family. May God surround you all with His love and strength in the coming days.
Ann Hostetler
December 3, 2009
Dear Dustin,
Our hearts ache for you. We are so sorry for your loss and can't imagine what you are going through. Glad you are there for your boys. We will hold you in our hearts and prayers.
Julia Smucker's Parents
CARRIE JETT
December 3, 2009
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH HEATHER AND HER FAMILY. WE WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL TOGETHER AND ALSO GROWN UP TOGETHER WE ALSO SANG TOGETHER AT SECOND CHURCH OF CHRIST I ACTUALLY HAVE THE TAPE FROM THE BOTH OF US SINGING, I WILL NEVER FORGET THE FUN TIMES WE SHARED. SHE WAS SUCH A SWEETHEART ALWAYS SMILING AND LAUGHING. MY THOUGHTS WILL BE WITH HER AND FAMILY
CARRIE (HUESTON) JETT
Matt Smith
December 2, 2009
Heather always had a smile on her face. She was a great friend and an inspiration to all of us. We are all blessed to have known Heather. Our thoughts and prayers and with her family, especially her children.
Clinton Taylor
December 2, 2009
Dustin-
No words can describe my sadness for your loss.
I too have pleeded with the Heavenly Father asking "Why"? YOU must continue to pray even through the most gut wrenching times of utter disappointment.
I will pray for you,
Clinton Taylor
Samantha (Burton) Losher
December 2, 2009
My heart and prayers go out to the family. Heather was my childhood neighbor and friend, and most memorably my volleyball teammate. She was a kind, patient, sweet person. She was someone you knew was going to go on to make a difference in many people lives. May God be with you in this tough time.
Brian Graf
December 2, 2009
So sorry to hear. My family will be praying for you and your family.
Pat Bihlmire
December 2, 2009
I am so sorry to hear about Heather. God be with you (Dusty, Bill, Cheryl and family) at this time. My prayers are with you.
Pat Bihlmire (Molly's Bark-ery
Jerry Luttrell
December 2, 2009
Russ and Tish,
I am so sorry to hear about Heather. My family and I are thinking about you.
Dawn LaBarbera
December 2, 2009
I am so saddened to hear this news. Heather was a graduate of mine from RFUMS PA program. In my new position in Fort Wayne, IN, I had to opportunity to reconnect with Heather. My prayers to her young family and for her.
Lori DeMike
December 2, 2009
Bill, Cheryl, Dusty and family...my heart is breaking for your loss. I praise God you still have Charlie and Brennan to hold and am praying you find some comfort in knowing Heather is with her Savior.
Lori DeMike (formerly of Breadsmith Elkhart Market)
December 2, 2009
Chon and I always appreciated your quick smiles, encouragment, and Godly attitude. Heaven is certainly brighter now because of you. You will be greatly missed by many.
Love to you and all your family,
Colette Shrock
Diane Lubbers
December 2, 2009
Dustin,
I was so saddened when John told me of Heather's passing. Know that you and your family are in my prayers and this sends my deepest sympathy. In Jesus' love, Diane
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