Jennifer Jean Hein, 66, passed away unexpectedly on April 28, 2025 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The eldest child of Peggy and Charlie Hein, she was born on July 7, 1958 in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was proud to follow in the footsteps of her parents with a strong commitment to education and public service.
A 1976 graduate of Omaha’s Westside High School, Jennifer attended Kearney State College (now University of Nebraska Kearney) where she earned a BA in Political Science and Business Administration. Her early jobs were diverse and adventurous—she was a park ranger at Mount Rushmore, worked in commercial radio, and owned a travel agency before returning to school to begin a career in education. Jennifer went on to earn a Master’s in Education with a specialization in Special Education from Northern Illinois University and continued her studies at Loyola University of Chicago as a PhD candidate in Educational Leadership.
Jennifer’s professional career reflected a dedication to students and commitment to educational excellence. She taught in the Oak Park River Forest and J. Sterling Morton School districts outside Chicago before serving as Coordinator of Secondary Transition and Instructional Services with the Northern Suburban Special Education District (NSSED) in Highland Park. From there, Jennifer joined the Ann Arbor Public Schools as Director of Student Intervention and Support Services and went on to fulfill a variety of administrative roles as an Assistant Principal and Principal at Ann Arbor Huron High School, Dean of Community High School, and Executive Director of Physical Properties.
After retiring, Jennifer enthusiastically followed passions old and new. She lent her voice to both the Washtenaw Chorale and the Ann Arbor Civic Chorus. The Ann Arbor District Library always had something on hold. She volunteered with Food Gatherers in Ann Arbor. A devoted animal lover, she actively supported the Humane Society of Huron Valley. Her love for literature and Nebraska led her to become a member of the Willa Cather Foundation and supporter of the National Willa Cather Center in Red Cloud, Nebraska. At the time of her passing, Jennifer was deeply engaged in genealogical research and had planned a summer visit to locate family homesteads. On her mother’s side, she was exploring her Scottish roots.
Jennifer is cherished by her partner of nearly 23 years, Julie Walstra. Together they explored the country, put together a cozy home, and made each other laugh with great regularity. Jennifer leaves behind a brother, Charles “Chuck” Hein II of Omaha. She was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret “Peggy” (Anderson) Hein and Charles “Charlie” R. Hein.
A memorial gathering will be held on Thursday, June 5th, at Nie Family Funeral Home, 3767 W. Liberty Rd., Ann Arbor, from 4 until 8 p.m. Family and friends are welcome to join the following day, Friday, June 6th, at 11 a.m. for a Celebration of Life service. Julie will take Jen home to Nebraska for a family service in Fremont where she will rest near her parents.
In lieu of flowers, Jennifer would want you to support an organization you value. And be sure to vote.
