Heide Cordray

Heide was born December 20, 1944 in Siegen, Germany, in the final months of the Second World War. Her parents were Rudolf and Irmgard Bäumner who preceded her in death. She grew up in the devastation and rebuilding of West Germany around her. She came to the United States in 1964 to visit a relative in Pekin. She was only allowed to stay for one year, but she was able to return in 1966. It was at that time that she met her husband Daniel and they were married in February 1967. They enjoyed their marriage for almost 59 years, the last 8 years under the ominous shadow of Alzheimer’s.

Heide was naturalized as a proud citizen of the United States on July 4, 1976, the bicentennial anniversary of the nation she loved.

Heide is survived by her husband Daniel, her brother Rolf (Petra), her son Brian (Kerri) and her three grandchildren (Mason, Brooke and Bree).

Heide enjoyed membership in the Peoria Symphony Orchestra Guild and in Entre Nous. She was always willing and able to assist these organizations in any way she could. She loved to travel, and she and her husband went as often as possible to places of interest. She was always ready to take advantage of new opportunities and regularly found herself engaged in something she had never done before. She especially appreciated her chance to be a grandmother to her wonderful grandchildren, and she performed that task with the same excellence she exhibited throughout her life.

Heide has been accorded cremation, and she and her family will meet privately to celebrate her life and times.

Heide is very grateful for the care she received from the management and staff of Lutheran Hillside Village during her battle with Alzheimer’s, especially the staff of Lavender Lane of the Lutheran Home. They can only imagine how much she appreciated their efforts. Thank you to all.

Memorials in Heide’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the St. Jude Children’s hospital.