PITTSFIELD- With sadness, love, and profound gratitude, the family of Heidi White announces her passing on January 16, 2021, at her home in Pittsfield, Maine. Born December 26, 1941, to Karl “Otto” and Elfreide (Haider) Spath of Ludwigsburg, Germany, Heidi grew up during the Second World War and its aftermath. She was raised in an area of Germany that had suffered much wartime damage and as such she spent far too many nights of her early years in fallout shelters and hiding when necessary. Her hometown housed many displaced Polish families, military bases for America, and camps holding prisoners of war. Heidi was profoundly impacted by these experiences, and it was in Germany that she developed the grit and grace she became so well known for. Upon reaching adulthood, Heidi left her home country and moved to the United States with a longing for the American Dream. She embraced the new culture with open arms and would fondly recall memories of carrying a pocket dictionary to look up the meaning of English words. She immediately began seeking (and found) employment- she worked at many places in the food service industry, where she was a well respected employee. Heidi was employed until 2019 as hard work was at the core of who she was. She had an indomitable spirit and encouraged her family and friends to persist in the face of struggles. There was nothing Heidi liked better than an interesting conversation with a cold drink. She was a fascinating story teller, well spoken, and would graciously share her memories and answer questions to any who asked. Heidi never found a challenge she couldn’t conquer with a little patience and persistence. She was known to enjoy quiet evenings with a thousand piece puzzle in her wicker chair under the glow of her lamp. She is survived by her five sons: Michael Spath of Germany, Richard White and wife Dyana of Corinna, Robert White and wife Laura of Spokane, WA, Markus White and wife Melissa of Winslow, and Shane White of Monterey, CA; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and sister, Erika Smith of Carmel Valley, CA. She was predeceased by her parents; two special friends, Peggy Kohler and Jane McDougal; and her beloved terrier, Cleo. A private remembrance will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations to Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence are accepted at https://www.mcedv.org/ To leave a message of kindness or to share a special memory, please visit www.shoreynichols.com. Care has been provided by Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home, Pittsfield.