Mary Ann Heiden

Mary Ann “Mimi” Heiden, 76, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born in Plainview, Minnesota, to Frank and Janet Mracheck, Mary Ann was raised along the Mississippi River in Wabasha. She graduated from Wabasha High School and attended Mankato State College.

Mary Ann spent most of her life raising her two sons, Justin and Brian, while also pursuing her love of art, following in the footsteps of her parents. She had an eye for vintage fashion and became known for finding unique clothing and restoring vintage hats. Her work attracted clients from around the world and eventually led her to open a vintage clothing store in Beaverdale, where she shared her passion for timeless style with others.

She was a lifelong Minnesota sports fan, especially when it came to cheering on her beloved Vikings. From the Purple People Eaters to JJ (Jefferson not McCarthy) she never missed a game. She also faithfully rooted for the Golden Gophers—much to the chagrin of her two Hawkeye sons.

For the past 18 years, being “Grandma Mimi” to her five grandchildren was the greatest joy of her life. She rarely missed a game, performance, or activity and was always on the sidelines cheering them on. She encouraged their creativity by filling their lives with art supplies and sharing her love of the arts. Whether gathered together or over FaceTime, she spent countless hours telling stories that became treasured memories for her grandchildren. They adored their Grandma Mimi, and she adored them.

Mary Ann was also a proud “cat lady.” Her cats, Zoey and Oreo, were constant companions, and she had a soft spot for stray and homeless cats, often spending her own time and resources to feed them and provide shelter from the elements. She also took great joy in feeding the squirrels and chipmunks outside her home so her indoor cats would have endless entertainment from the window.

Mary Ann is survived by her sons, Justin Heiden (Christina) of Winnetka, Illinois, and Brian Heiden (Kristin) of West Des Moines, Iowa; her grandchildren, Lyla, Layton, Landry, Ben, and Brynn; and her sister, Jan Mrachek (Erich Grabowski) of Wabasha, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Janet Mracheck; her sister, Lori Mracheck; and her daughter, Kari.

A private memorial will take place with family at a later date

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Furry Friends Refuge in West Des Moines, IA.

Mary Ann will be remembered for her creativity, her love of family, her compassion for animals, and the joy she found in the simple moments spent with the people she loved.