Linda was born September 16, 1952, to Mary Beth (Schrand) and Cletus August Rompel. She was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She graduated from Our Lady Queen of Peace in 1966 and Althoff Catholic High School in 1970. She went on to get her bachelor’s in psychology from McKendree and master’s from SIUE. She graduated with honors and prided herself on her intellect and work ethic. Her compassion and kindness made her an incredible licensed counselor, boss, and friend. She was the clinical manager of the southern region of Lutheran Child and Family Service, and her leadership and impact there will be deeply missed.
In 1972, she met Tony, the love of her life. They were married, after only seven months together, on December 28th. Together, they had four children and built a beautiful life. They celebrated 50 years together in May of 2022 and planned a trip for the whole family to Walt Disney World. It was always so important to her that the family spend as much time together as possible. This special trip was Linda’s last gift to her family. To Linda, family was everything. Of all her accomplishments, she felt her close relationships with those she loved were the most important. She will be remembered for her wonderful advice, quick wit, infectious smile, and beautiful eyes. You couldn’t help but to love her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, David J. Rompel and Paul J. Rompel.
Surviving are her husband, Anthony H. Heap;
four children, Jami (Bryan) White, Andrew (JoAnn) Heap, Amber (Brad) Kibler,
and Chelsea (Mike) Renner;
12 grandchildren, Kodiak (Danielle) and Mackenzie White,
Athena, Eaen, and Vivienne Heap,
Charlotte, Chloe, Elizabeth, Kathryn, and Olston Kibler,
Rosie and Mikey Renner;
two great-grandchildren, Sawyer and Walker White;
a brother, James Rompel;
a sister-in-law, Barb Rompel;
and countless other nieces, nephews, friends, and family members whom she loved dearly.
In lieu of flowers, memorials or donations may be made to Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic School in Belleville or Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Belleville, IL, with Fr. Matthew Elie officiating.