Obituaries

Michelle Heist, 73, of Villa Hills, Kentucky, passed away on March 24, 2026.

Born on January 25, 1953, in Covington, Kentucky, Michelle was the beloved daughter of Charles and Patricia (née Campbell) Cattani. She shared a beautiful life with her husband, Fred Heist. Though they were married for 51 years, they had known each other their whole lives — a love story rooted in a lifetime of memories, friendship, and devotion.

Michelle devoted much of her life to caring for others. She worked for 43 years at St. Elizabeth Healthcare (formerly St. Luke Hospital) as an x-ray technician specializing in mammography, where she touched many lives through her compassion and dedication. Alongside her husband, Fred, she also proudly co-owned I. B. Back Fudge: Nut Hut for 33 years, building a business that became a meaningful part of their life together.

Michelle was a woman of incredible strength, determination, and heart. She faced cancer with remarkable resilience and was known for her strong spirit and tireless energy. She took great pride in caring for others and in keeping a home filled with love and comfort. She loved to sew and crochet, dedicating an entire room in her house to her craft, she loved her family deeply, and she always found joy in taking care of the people she loved most.

Above all, Michelle will be remembered for the love she gave so freely, the strength she carried so gracefully, and the devotion she had to her family. She was deeply loved, and she will be deeply missed.

Michelle is survived by her loving husband, Fred Heist; her children, Natalie (David) Heist, Andrew Heist, and Mark (Julie) Heist; her cherished grandchildren, Ava and Olivia; and all those who were blessed to know and love her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Patricia Cattani, and her sister, Cathy Rummel.