Heidi Lynn (Lyzhoft) Vanderlinde peacefully passed away on August 2, 2019. She was 57, with her life shortened by the devastating effects of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Yet, her family prefers you recall the Heidi of healthier years—a vibrant, quick-witted, energetic, kind, and generous mother, wife, sibling, daughter, and friend to so many.
Heidi undoubtedly loved her grandson Max, as well. They had a special bond, as he brought her a particular joy that no one else seemed to replicate. How that busy toddler sat on her lap for an hour at a time while cruising the halls of Presbyterian Homes or how Heidi allowed him to style her hair (when he was two) are testaments to their love for each other. It was remarkable.
As was the love that Leon (her husband) dedicatedly showed to her, up until hours of his own passing. Since that time, the extremely dedicated care team at Presbyterian Homes Lake Minnetonka Shores, as well as the Park Nicollet hospice team, has been instrumental in providing her (and her family), comfort and peace. We will be forever grateful to those who cared for her, as well as her closest friends, who took turns sitting by her side, during her final decline.
Please note Heidi was not lovingly cared for by so many by coincidence. She gave love generously, had contagious energy, and was quite humorous. For that reason, we are celebrating her life.
Heidi was born on March 16, 1962 in Watertown, MN to Roger and Janet (Simon) Lyzhoft. She attended grade school at St. Paul’s Lutheran School and high school at Watertown-Mayer. She was an “80s Lady”—although several of her friendships date back over 50 years.
Heidi was a small-town girl at heart and worked close to the community. In earlier years, working for Carlson and Gage, and later, caring for the homes of many (as well as her own). She took great pride in maintaining the grounds and gardens, as well as growing produce, on the family farm.
But more importantly, she took pride in those that she loved. Her relationship with Leon began close to 40 years ago-marrying him on Valentine’s Day. During their years together, she was mom to three children (Lindsay, Troy, and Courtney), acted as a “second mom” to a handful more, and even made room for a few treasured pets.
What a great example. Even in recent years, while participating in the Encore program in Waconia and then in activities at the Presbyterian Homes campus, her smile and laugh captivated people. She continued to find pleasure in sunny days, good music, and chocolate. She will be missed by many.
Heidi was preceded in death by her husband Leon Vanderlinde; father-in-law and mother-in-law Edmund and Marcella Vanderlinde; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Thomas Vanderlinde, Richard Vanderlinde, Ann Vanderlinde, Jim Bauer, Tim Johnson.
Heidi is survived by her loving family: daughters Lindsay Vanderlinde and partner Al Jongerius of Chaska, Courtney (M.J.) Iverson of Maple Grove; son Troy Vanderlinde of Watertown; grandson Maximus Iverson; parents Roger and Janet Lyzhoft of Watertown; brothers Paul Lyzhoft of Buffalo, Rick Lyzhoft of New Germany; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Betty (Greg) Erhard of Olathe, KS, Judy (Jim) Storms of Cologne, Frances Vanderlinde of Watertown, Mary (Bruce) Schepers of Savage, Bea Bauer of Watertown, Jerry Vanderlinde of Lake Bronson, Theresa Johnson of Watertown, Dan (Dorine) Vanderlinde of Mayer, Janet (Chad) Banken of Minnetonka; Marcy Vanderlinde of Watertown; nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.