Linda Rae Heatherton

Linda Rae Heatherton, 79, passed away December 8, 2024 into the arms of her Lord Jesus at Kavanagh House on 56th. Celebration of her life will be held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA on Friday, January 17, 2025 with visitation from 10 AM to 12 PM followed by the memorial service at noon.

Linda “Buffy” was born January 17, 1945 in Waterloo, IA to Marilyn (Marmie) and Kenneth Heatherton. She graduated from Mason City High School and soon moved to Des Moines where she began her nearly 40-year career with the Iowa Department of Revenue. In 1996, through a mutual friend, Linda met the love of her life, Don Starcevich. The Starcevich family embraced her and loved her dearly.

Though she had no children of her own, Linda cherished her relationship with her nieces, Amy and Sara, and was like a 2nd mom to them as well as honorary grandma to their kids. She was always very involved with her family, attended their sporting, school and special events, went on outings, and spent countless hours playing cards and board games with them. Her love for her family was never doubted and they loved her dearly.

Linda also had many wonderful friends who became like family. She was the life of the party with personality plus. She was so kind, generous, loving and had a great sense of humor. She enjoyed reading, music, following Iowa State and SE Polk Football, watching movies and Young and the Restless soap.

This dear lady will be greatly missed by her nieces, Amy (Bruce) Wyborny and Sara (Colin) Bengfort; great-nieces and nephews, Aubrey (fiancé Chad Depew) Wyborny, Rachel (Jeremiah) Mitchell, Kyle Wyborny, Hayden Bengfort, and Jace Bengfort; sister-in-law, Kathy Heatherton; honorary children, Mike Starcevich, Pam (Ron) Wiley, and Pug (Deb) Starcevich; honorary grandchildren, Shawn (Erica) Starcevich, Megan (Cameron) Glass, Kyle (Meg) Starcevich, Luke (Tori) Starcevich, and Shane Starcevich; honorary great-grandchildren, Aiyden, Ellison, Rudy, and one on the way; and honorary sister-in-law, Darla (Larry) Dybvad.

Linda was preceded in death by her life partner, Don Starcevich; parents, Kenneth and Marilyn; and her brother, Mike Heatherton.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Kavanagh (Hospice) House on 56th or to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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