Search by Name

Search by Name

Kimberly Heikens Obituary

Kimberly Heikens (Kimmers, Kim), 58, unexpectedly passed away at home in Durango, Colorado on April 3, 2025.

Kim was a beautiful soul who loved the mountains, being outdoors, caring for others and spending time with her partner Steve and her cats and dogs. She was a daughter, big sister, auntie, friend and a loving partner. She was a vibrant, energetic and spirited woman who will be terribly missed by her family and friends.

Kim was born in Denver, Colorado in July 1966. She graduated from St. Mary's Academy (1978), Colorado Mountain College (1995), and Western State Colorado University (2000).

Kim moved to Summit County as a young adult. She harnessed her love of the outdoors and teaching as a Certified Snowboard Coach, Instructor and Youth Facilitator at Copper Mountain Ski Resort and Crested Butte Mountain Resort. She loved being in the mountains, whether it was snowboarding, snow shoeing or paddling on a a kayak/ paddle board with her dog. Her love of teaching continued in the classroom as a teacher for Durango School District 9-R.

Kim eventually settled in Durango, Colorado. She had a passion for helping others and it was evident in how she lived her life. She worked as a NETA certified Fitness Coach and Instructor and was also a Home Health Care Provider.

It was here that she met her partner, Steve Caplan. Together they built a life enjoying each other and the great outdoors.

Kim was a very talented percussionist. She enjoyed playing with many musical groups in and around Summit County and Durango. She love attending music festivals and went to many, many Grateful Dead shows over the years.

Kim was preceded in death by her mother Debra Fagan.

Kim is survived by her father, Robert Heikens (Linda), and her birth father, William Carbone; Partner, Steve Caplan; Sisters, Kristin Carbone (Greg) and Sarah Carbone (Cyrus) and niece Emma.

There will be a celebration of Kim's life on June 7 at the Junction Creek Campground starting around 2:00 PM. Bring a potluck dish and some memories of Kim to share.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Durango Herald on May 12, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Kimberly Heikens

Not sure what to say?





5 Entries

Elliot and Cal

June 17, 2025

Very sorry to hear of Kimmers passing. She was a regular at the restaurant where I bartend

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Beth Tipton, Anne & Brad Smith, Lisa Craven

Planted Trees

Eco-Friendly Memorial Trees

Lou and Denise Domenico

Planted Trees

Merry Mathers

May 31, 2025

Kim is my niece, my brother´s daughter. Her death brings me great sadness; as it does for each of us! Not only because she was young and vibrant, but because I had let time come between us. I thought there would be more time to visit, to play, to reminisce.... And, so very suddenly there is no more time with Kim.
She remains my teacher: mind your step, don´t count on tomorrow, don´t let distance come between those I love, be careful with words, keep banging that drum!! I am left with lovely memories and remain Merry; thanks Kimmie

Elizabeth Tipton

May 12, 2025

Thank you for bringing joy to my brother and to the world.

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results

Make a Donation
in Kimberly Heikens's name

Memorial Events
for Kimberly Heikens

Jun

7

Celebration of Life

2:00 p.m.

Junction Creek Campground

CO

How to support Kimberly's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Kimberly Heikens's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more