Erin K. Higgins

Erin Kristine Higgins, 42, of Wellsburg, Iowa, passed away suddenly on August 9, 2025, in Iowa City, Iowa. A memorial service will be held at St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Wellsburg on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Memorials may be directed to Abels Funeral Home, 509 4th St in Grundy Center or the account set up at Greenbelt Bank “Erin’s Memorial Fund.

Erin was born November 2, 1982, in Des Moines, Iowa. When she was young, she brought tremendous joy to those around her with her infectious smile and irresistible charm. She often sang for the family at “impromptu” talent shows that all enjoyed. Erin was an amazing singer often winning or placing in talent shows. Her voice soothed her mother’s soul.

Erin was a devoted caregiver who believed that every person deserved time, love, dignity and the best care that she could provide. She was currently successfully pursuing her nursing career.

Her son Isaac was her pride and joy. Her happiest day was when God gave her him. She loved him with every ounce of her being. They shared such a special bond. They enjoyed spending their time adventuring in the great outdoors, and sometimes just hanging out on the couch with snacks and a movie. She was a devoted mother.

Erin left a lasting impression of love and compassion to every life she touched. She was the absolute best sister and friend. The people she loved, she loved them hard and forever. She had a special love for children, the elderly and people who were in need. She adopted countless children into her love and made life long impacts on them. She did the same for her friends. Regardless of what life threw at her, including many painful times, she took it and made it into something beautiful and meaningful. She influenced so many young women with her ability to push through with determination, love, her power and drive being and inspiration to everyone. She understood that family is the ultimate rich. Her impact will leave ripples in hearts everywhere.

Those left to remember Erin’s legacy are her son Isaac Lang, her sister Devin Higgins and her nephews William, Waylon, Walker and Wylder Minteer. As well as her aunts and uncles; Marcia Van Heiden (LuDean Johnson), Lance (Cindy) Van Heiden, Paula (Larry) Klosterboer and Sara Van Heiden. Her cousins, Matthew (Denise) Van Heiden, Kayla (Kyle) Simpson, Evan (Kourtney) Klosterboer, Chelsea (Kyle) Waechter, Ethan Wagner, Madison and Cassidy Van Heiden. She is also survived by chosen family, Lauren Whitman, and her kids Wyatt, Waylan, and Banks. Also, Isaac’s grandparents Tom and Rosemary Lang and Aunt Julie Lang.

She was preceded in death by her mother Stacy Van Heiden and her grandparents LaVern and Kay Van Heiden. Their lasting impact and their memories remained very close to her heart throughout her life.