Lindsay Ryan Heimkes

   Lindsay was born on July 31, 1986, in Waconia MN, daughter of David and Tamara Heimkes. She was greeted at home with a sister Letitia and then joined with another sister Lacie and brother Isaac. Lindsay went to school at Sibley East, where she developed a love for sports. Her passion was basketball as everyone could see. Our family moved to Filer Idaho when she was in 9th grade. Although, that was difficult for her age she adjusted well and continued to express herself in sports, she was talented in every athletic aspect. She was determined to play at the college level and succeeded her goals with a scholarship at Sheridan College in Wyoming. She thrived with her first year of basketball there and appreciated all she learned from her wonderful coach and teammates. Lindsay’s life took a tragic turn in July 2006, when she was on her way to a recruiting camp for D1-2 colleges. She lived her life as a quadriplegic since then. She conquered her new way of life like a trooper. She never showed pity, she always carried herself with grace and amazement. While her passion was basketball-everyone knew who to talk basketball with and it was Lindsay. Lindsay resided with her parents in our home in the beautiful Emmett valley. Lindsay had many other interests and kept herself busy with all sports, books, and outdoor activities, including kayaking. She loved the warmth of the sun, sitting on the patio or a day out in the pool with family. She adored her family and made family priority. She had a special bond with her nieces and nephew, and would always come up with activities and projects to do, they loved Lindsay fearlessly. Lindsay also has a pet—Lovey as well and rarely did you see Lindsay without Lovey on her lap. Lovey rode with Lindsay everywhere. Lindsay loved to travel and we promised her we would continue to make that happen. No matter what hurdle we were presented we made it happen with cruises to annual trips to Mexico, where she could enjoy the ocean and sunsets.
   Lindsay was quiet, warm, fearless and resilient. Her grace was beautiful, she was the best listener and had the greatest advice. Her bond with mom was a connection any mom could admire. Due to her paralysis, we were inseparable. As mom, I always told her I would care for her until I was 90 and carry her to the moon. She was adored as a daughter, sister, auntie, cousin and friend. Being loved by Lindsay was a constantly astonishing gift.
    Although she left us way too soon, empty and with a broken heart, we all know her spirit lives on and is always with us. Now she is shooting hoops with beautiful wings. We love you Lindsay -- FOREVER