Heidi N. Wilkinson, 45, of Decatur, Indiana, passed away at home surrounded by her family in the early morning hours of Saturday, August 8, 2026, following a 14-month illness.
She was born November 9, 1980 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Gary and Michelle (Littig) Knipstein. Heidi was united in marriage to James Wilkinson on July 14, 2001, at St. John Lutheran Church, Bingen, and he survives.
She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Friedheim, and was employed as a dental assistant with Fort Wayne Dental Group for 22 years.
Family was at the center of Heidi’s life. She was deeply devoted to her children, and that same love and care extended to her nieces and nephews. She was especially looking forward to becoming “Grandma Honey” rather than “Heidi G.” Heidi was known for making ice cream cakes for every family birthday, adding a special touch to each celebration. For their birthdays, she would give her nieces and nephews the choice between a gift or spending time with her—and they always chose time with Heidi. She also enjoyed taking her children, nieces, and nephews out for ice cream at the beginning and end of each school year, creating simple but cherished memories together.
Heidi also looked forward to decorating Grandma Norma’s single tree for every holiday throughout the year. From New Year’s and St. Patrick’s Day to Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, each holiday brought another opportunity for Heidi to decorate the tree and make the season special.
Heidi loved being outdoors and enjoyed hiking, always encouraging Jim and the children to come along and “enjoy the experience.” Traveling with her family was another favorite pastime. She took great pride in planning and coordinating family trips, carefully finding wonderful places to stay and great values and coupons that often surprised and delighted her family.
Heidi was also a devoted supporter of the racing careers of both Hunter and Jim. She could often be found at the track, offering encouragement, support, and, most importantly, many prayers.
She is survived by her husband, Jim Wilkinson of Decatur, Indiana; son, Hunter (fiancé Ashlyne Shanks) Wilkinson of Decatur, Indiana; daughter, Analise (Colten) King of Hoagland, Indiana; mother, Michelle Knipstein of Hoagland, Indiana; brother, Matt (Michelle) Knipstein of Hoagland, Indiana; sister, Laura (Chris) Ianucilli of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and a granddaughter on the way.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Funeral services for Heidi will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026 at Zion Lutheran Church, Friedheim with Pastor Matthew Ulmer officiating. Burial will follow at a later date at Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Friedheim.
Family and Friends will be received from 2-5 and 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home, Decatur and from 9:45 – 10:45 a.m. on Friday at the church.
Preferred memorials in honor of Heidi can be made to either Zion Lutheran Church, Friedheim or the ACCF – Angel Fund, Cancer.
Arrangements by Zwick and Jahn Funeral Homes of Decatur, Indiana.
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