Kathleen Ann Heissinger-Hawkshaw, a beloved Birch Tree, Missouri resident, unexpectedly died on January 5, 2026, at Salem Care Center in Salem, Missouri. Her passing at the age of 74 left the little town of Birch Tree and those who knew her from her earlier years in Illinois in a state of silent grief.
Kathleen Heissinger was born in Springfield, Illinois, on October 18, 1951, to Alvin and Vanita Heissinger. She was raised in an area that embodied Midwestern ideals of diligence and camaraderie. Her early years in central Illinois gave her a grounded personality and a passion for genuine connections and conscientious endeavors that persisted into adulthood.
Up until her well-earned retirement, Kathleen devoted many years of her life to the University of Illinois in Springfield. In an academic setting renowned for its emphasis on education and community impact, her job within the organization demonstrated a dedication to service and dependability, attributes that won her respect among colleagues.
With her marriage to Don Hawkshaw offering companionship and shared experiences at their Birch Tree home, family served as the emotional core of Kathleen’s universe. She extended her maternal heart to mixed familial ties by embracing her stepson, Bill Hawkshaw, who was married to Shanno, and taking great delight in her daughter, Stephanie Feaster. Her days were brightened by the happiness of several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, providing chances for loving and wise generational relationships.
Although her parents, Alvin and Vanita Heissinger, and sister, Linda Huelskoetter, passed away before her, Kathleen is survived by her husband, Don; daughter, Stephanie; stepson, Bill and his wife, Shanno; sister, Joanne Barbee; and an extended family that is enriched by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family, friends and the entire community of Birch Tree in Missouri are deeply devastated during this difficult time. Please, remember them in your prayers and you can also express your condolences in the comment section below.
