Bette Jo Heilman

Bette Jo “Joey” Heilman, 67 of Mankato, died Thursday, March 23, 2017 at Mayo Clinic Health System – Mankato.

A visitation for Joey will take place 4-8p.m., Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at Mankato Mortuary, 1001 N Riverfront Dr., in Mankato. Memorials are preferred to the Key City Kennel Club.

Joey was born October 10, 1949 to Harold and Peggy (Ferguson) Hauer in Austin, MN. She graduated from Austin Public High School in 1967 and attended Austin Jr. College and Mankato State University. In 1971 she married Brad Heilman in Austin, MN. Joey worked for Brett’s Clothing store, Herberger’s Department Store and several antique shops around the Mankato area. Joey’s passion was caring for any and all dogs. She was a member of Therapy Dogs International, on the board of the Key City Kennel Club, and was a Good People Jefferson Award recipient for her work with people through dogs.  Joey, was a kind and loving person who cared deeply for her family and friends. She will be greatly missed by many.

Joey is survived by her husband, Brad of 45 years; nephew, Victor Alwes of San Luis Obispo, CA; and many caring cousins and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Glenda Loomis.