Heather L. Nash, of Dowagiac

Published 9:13 am Monday, December 31, 2018

July 10, 1973 — Dec. 27, 2018

Heather L. Nash, 45, of Dowagiac, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka.

A celebration of life service will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, at Sister Lakes Community Church, 67119 M-152, Dowagiac, with Pastor Scott Stambaugh officiating. Memorial contributions in Heather’s name may be made to the Patrick Hamilton PTO or the Dowagiac Band Boosters. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at clarkch.com.

Heather was born on July 10, 1973, in Waco, Texas, to David and Sandi (Ignatz) Hoger.

She graduated from Dowagiac High School in 1991. Heather then went on the University of Michigan for two years before completing her bachelor’s degree at Albion College.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she continued her education and received two master’s degrees from Grand Valley State University.

She began her career teaching elementary music in the Dowagiac School System, taught Kindergarten at Sister Lakes Elementary School for eight years, eventually ending as Principal of Patrick Hamilton Elementary School for 11 years.

On Aug. 8, 1998, she married the love of her life, Tobin Nash in Las Vegas.

In 2001, they welcomed Cooper into their family and then Erica in 2003. There is nothing she would not do for her children.

Heather worked tirelessly to make her school and community a better place. She secured grants to install ‘The Little Free Library’ boxes across Dowagiac, and a $40,000 grant from the Pokagon Band for a new playground at Patrick Hamilton Elementary School. When working on these projects, and many others, Heather enlisted her vast array of family and friends to join in her endeavors. She had the ability to bring people together around a vision that only she could see and we have all witnessed her immense spirit, creativity and ability to bring fun into all she pursued.

Heather could be seen volunteering at hundreds of her children’s dance performances, band performances, and so many other activities. She was active in the Dowagiac Band Boosters and was an advocate for Special Olympics. She never said no to anyone who asked for help.

She loved and was loved by her wonderful staff at Patrick Hamilton Elementary.

Education was her passion. She believed every child was precious and deserved a good education. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Heather is survived by her loving husband, Tobin Nash; children, Cooper Nash and Erica Nash; parents, David and Sandi Hoger; siblings Bradley Hoger, Jill (Van) Hunsberger and Wendy (Randy) Hoger-Bond; niece Rachel Hunsberger and best friend Leslie Malin and family.