Elizabeth Heilwagen

Elizabeth Carpenter Heilwagen, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, left this world peacefully on January 14, 2025, at the age of 95, in Greenwood, Indiana. Born on June 5, 1929, in Quincy, Illinois, to the late Rex and Clara (Waters) Carpenter. Liz made a lasting impact in her community and in the hearts of those who knew her.

A proud graduate of Quincy High School in 1947, She dedicated her life to both her work and her family. She began her career at a local dress factory, where she worked diligently, even during summer breaks, to help support her mother. Later, her commitment to excellence was evident during her tenure at Chase Bank, where she served as a Supervisor in the Mastercard Department from 1965 until her retirement in 1994.

Beyond her professional achievements, Liz was deeply involved in her church, where she utilized her talents to work on the church newsletter and volunteer her time generously. Her spiritual commitment shone brightly when she joined the Zion Evangelical United Church of Christ upon moving to Indianapolis in 1950, fostering connections that would last a lifetime.

Liz was known for her kindness and welcoming nature, always making others feel at ease. With a great sense of humor, she had the ability to light up a room and bring smiles to those around her. Her love for family was evident in every moment spent together, with cherished memories punctuated by laughter, warmth, and the occasional quilting session.

Her hobbies included a love for hummingbirds, which brought her joy, and quilting an art form through which she expressed her creativity and affection for her loved ones. Liz’s quilted works are a testament to her intricate craftsmanship and her love for family, each stitch infused with the warmth of her heart.

Liz leaves behind her loving daughter, Cynthia Lynn Shlakman (Michael); son, David Eugene Heilwagen. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Tasha Niesman (Billy Hicks), Shannon Bromagen (Cassie), Bradley Heilwagen (Sara), Rebecca Webb (Dustin Bonhomme), and Tara Heilwagen. Additionally, she was a proud great-grandmother to Amanda Sickles, Adam Heilwagen, Alison Heilwagen, Nathan Bromagen, Quinton Bonhomme, Brianna Baker, and Bailey Bowman, each of whom will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness.

Liz is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Heilwagen, whom she married on March 13, 1948, as well as her sons Michael Wayne Heilwagen and Mark Alan Heilwagen, and her daughter-in-law, Julie Heilwagen. Her beloved parents, Rex and Clara (Waters) Carpenter, and her sister, Anna Mae (Carpenter) Behnkendorf.

"The family would like to extend their wholehearted gratitude to the Doctors, Nurses and Staff at Community Hospice for their unwavering support and care. They would especially like to thank Brenda, Darla, Abbey, Paige, Jackie, and Pastor Mike. You folks are the best.”

 Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Flanner Buchanan - Washington Park North, located at 2706 Kessler Blvd W Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46228. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM at the same location.

Elizabeth Carpenter Heilwagen's unwavering spirit and the love she shared with her family and friends will forever echo in hearts of many. Her life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories, and she will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know her.