Bunice D. Heidtke

Bunice Darlene Heidtke, 81, of Decorah, IA, passed away September 8, 2016. She was born on January 22, 1935, in Fulda, MN, to John and Clara (Goeken) Danneman, and graduated from Fulda High School with the class of 1952. She went on to attend Wartburg College where she graduated with a degree in parish work. Bunice married Ray Heidtke of Fountain, MN in 1957, and together they raised three daughters: Sandra (Rob) Larson of Decorah, IA, Lisa (Jim) Schlotterback, and Sonya (Ron) Huesman, both of Mounds View, MN. Ray passed away on November 15, 2013. Bunice had eight grandchildren – Karlton, Kelsie, and Patrick Larson, Ryan and Laura Schlotterback, and Mikayla, Kylie, and Matthew Huesman. She loved her children and grandchildren very much and was extremely supportive of them in all their activities. Bunice was an accomplished organist, and contributed to the worship music of all of the parishes where Ray was pastor. She also worked throughout her life; her last position was as Clerk of Court in the Barnes County court system in Valley City, North Dakota. In later years, her biggest pleasure came from her grandchildren. She baked them cookies and bars, attended endless school events, and sent emails to cheer them on and congratulate them on their accomplishments. They all knew Grandma thought of them and prayed for them daily! Bunice was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Delbert Danneman, and one sister Edith Brinkman. She is survived by her loving family, along with her sister Elaine Alt from Custer, SD, and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 12 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Decorah with Pastor Amy Larson officiating Visitation begins on Monday at 10:00 a.m., one hour before the service, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Memorials are preferred to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 701 Iowa Ave., Decorah, IA 52101 or the donor’s favorite charity.