Martina “Tina” K. Heilman

Martina K. “Tina” Heilman, age 71 of Monroe, passed away Saturday afternoon, December 4, 2021 at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital. Born July 1, 1950 in Monroe, Michigan, Tina was the second child born to the late Thomas and Marie (Cousineau) Keegan. Tina graduated from St. Mary Academy in 1968. She earned an Associate of Arts Degree from Monroe County Community College in 1970 and furthered her studies at Eastern Michigan University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Education Degree in 1972 and a Master of Arts in Learning Disabilities Degree in 1975. After completing her studies, Tina began a fulfilling teaching career that spanned 30 years. She taught children with special needs at Ida and Monroe Public Schools, and Kindergarten at the American International School of Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Europe, retiring in 2007. On September 9, 1978, Tina married David N. Heilman at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Monroe. Together they raised two sons, Jon-David and Matthew. As a member of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Monroe, Tina was active with the RCIA Team for adult faith formation, was an instructor in faith formation for elementary and grade school classes, and served as a Eucharistic Minister at Mass and to the homebound. Always giving of herself in service to God and the Monroe community, Tina worked in professional fundraising for non-profit organizations, served as a board member of Heartbeat of Monroe, volunteered at Gabby’s Ladder, and delivered meals to the elderly. When Tina found time for herself, she enjoyed reading, writing, Bible study, gardening, art, singing and performance music, traveling, and sharing God’s love with others in everyday experiences and encounters. Tina is survived by her husband David; two sons, Jon-David (Kristin) Heilman of Papillion, NE and Matthew K. Heilman of Mohawk, MI; three siblings, John Keegan of St. Charles, MO, Robin Keegan and Michael Keegan, both of Monroe; and “Grammie” to four grandchildren, Jordan, Taylee, Hannah, and Kyler. Tina was also special spiritual “Yomama” to Angela and Christopher Carter of Monroe. Family and friends may visit from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12th at Bacarella Funeral Home where the Rosary will be recited at 5 p.m. Tina will lie in state at 9:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mary Catholic Church. Mass of the Resurrection will be concelebrated at 11 a.m. by Rev. Fr.’s David Burgard, Anthony Sulkowski, and Zaid Chabaan. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Monroe. In keeping with Tina’s legacy of helping others, her family prefers memorial donations be made to Heartbeat of Monroe, or Food For The Poor or Heifer International, two organizations devoted to ending hunger and poverty. Most important in Tina’s life was her relationship with Jesus Christ and her friendships with others. She was always a willing counselor to those in need and once a friend, you were always a friend. She was a joyful missionary disciple who lived her life to be giving of time, talent and treasures. “Well done, good and faithful servant”