Heather Zene Hutchins

Heather Zene Hutchins, beloved sister, daughter, niece, and aunt; lover of books, coffee, and tasty food; and world-class knitter, passed away on July 9, 2024, age 64. Heather had recently successfully vanquished leukemia and endured a stem cell transplant with grace and determination.

Her other superpowers included a fierce devotion to her family and her many friends, and a keen eye and apt commentary for the world around her. This served her well in her published works, drafts of mystery novels and other creative writing projects. Her attention to detail is apparent in the intricate knitting projects she tackled, turning out flawless handmade gifts year after year. 

This strong and feisty woman was born in Nipigon, Ontario, Canada on February 19th, 1960. She was raised in Rockford, IL, eventually settling in Chicago and then Algonquin, IL. Heather graduated from Guilford High School where she was very active in band, orchestra and JROTC. She received her BA and MA from Northern Illinois University, and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta. In addition to her background in writing, ghostwriting and editing, Heather has taught English and writing classes at the middle school, high school and college levels. Heather was also a musician, and she passed on her love of music by giving lessons on instruments like bassoon, saxophone and harp. 

She is survived by her mother, Nancy McDonald, of Algonquin, IL; her uncle, Terry C. Smith, of Brooksville, FL; her sister, Shauna St Clair, of Alexandria, VA; her brothers, Kevin McCandless, of Rockton, IL. and Steven (Midge) Morrow, of Rockford IL.; her nieces and nephews, Meagan Nouhra, Justin Nouhra, Alyson McCandless, Erin McCandless and James Morrow.

Heather was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Greg Lackner.

A "Celebration of Life” gathering for Heather will be held on Thursday, July 18, 2024 from at 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Willow Funeral Home 1415 W. Algonquin Rd., (one half mile east of Randall Rd.) Algonquin/Lake in the Hills.

A private family interment will take place Willwood Burial Park in Rockford, Illinois.

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