Fern H. Heise, 89, passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at the Brethren Retirement Community. Fern was born on September 10, 1927 in Pleasant Hill, Ohio, the daughter of the late Clyde and Mary (Paulus) Hershey.In addition to her parents, Fern is preceded in death by her brothers, Kenneth and Dale Hershey.
Fern is survived by her husband, Dr. Jesse L. Heise whom she married on June 15,1951. Together they have five children, two daughters, Esther (Bob) Hoover and Sue ( Mark) Walton; three sons, Ken (Becky) Heise, Keith ( Susan) Heise and Kurt (Samantha Olzeski) Heise; 16 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren.
Fern lived in Pitsburg, Ohio with her husband to whom she was a faithful companion. Her love and faithfulness helped make it possible for him to serve the community as a family physician for many years.
She graduated from Goshen College with a degree in Home Economics Education, Fern then taught at Messiah College for 2 years prior to her marriage. While her husband was in medical school she worked at Bethesda Hospital in Cincinnati, as a dietician. Fern unselfishly used her many talents and skills in her home, church, community and on the mission field.
Fern was a member of the Pleasant Hill Brethren in Christ Church. She was also a member of the Entre Nous Club and the Darke County Home Economics Club. She accompanied her husband and their five children to Africa where they served in medical missionary work for a period of one year. Fern enjoyed planning family reunions. She was a gracious hostess, entertaining family and friends at their home in Pitsburg on many occasions.
A Celebration of life will be held on Monday, January 23, 2017 at 12:00 PM at the Brethren Retirement Community Chapel with Rev. John Weaver officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
Family and Friends may visit from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at the Brethren Retirement Community Chapel.
Memorial contribution may be made to State of the Heart Care.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.oliverfloyd.com