Dana Jean Aker

Dana was Born in Freeport, Illinois October 12th 1983. She was the daughter of Gerald Heck and Pamela Brown. Dana graduated from the River Ridge High school class of 2002. She graduated from Highland College with her Associates Degree as a registered nurse in 2005. She specialized in pediatric nursing, dedicated time in Honduras for a mission trip healing children’s cleft pallets.

To go along with her passion for healthcare… Dana also graduated with her massage therapy license in 2012. Her hard work and dedication to healing made a difference in many lives throughout her career.

But the most honorable badge she wore… held the title of mother. I can imagine no heroism greater than motherhood. Above everything, Dana placed her baby girl Isla as highest priority. Her love for her daughter will never fade, it will never waver, it will never be questioned, it will never be doubted. Dana's motherly love is eternal.

During her life…Dana was passionate about her family and many friends. She enjoyed baking, crafting and all things fall. Pumpkin spice and everything nice …that was her favorite time of year. She loved a good party, music and dancing. She had a soft spot for animals, specifically kitty cats. Loving all things soft and fuzzy… I can’t tell you the amount of blankets and cozy socks Dana both collected and gifted through the years.

Dana will forever be remembered as being compassionate, empathetic… loving. Sometimes a bit stubborn but Always giving more than she received. She was a beautiful soul and so intelligent. She was truly a treasured gift.

Dana is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Isla Aker; parents, Gerald Heck and Pamela Pettera; 2 brothers, Jeremy Heck and Dustin Heck; 2 sisters, April Crawford and Ashley Heck; 3 nephews, Ethan, Tristan and Kaiden Crawford; 2 nieces, Ivy and Scarlett Hernandez. Also many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her little sister Courtney Heck.

A a celebration of life for Dana will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Masonic Event Center, 305 W Stephenson St, Freeport, IL 61032.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dana's memory may be made to Hospice Austin's Christopher House

https://www.gofundme.com/f/honor-danas-memory-with-a-celebration utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet_ai&utm_content=amp9v2&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=qr_code.