Obituary of Harriett Hiatt

Harriett began life as a (twin) daughter to Ralph and Eleanor Behrens into a family of four brothers, Gene, Richard, Harry (twin) and Ellie. As a farm girl she learned a strong work ethic which served her well throughout her life. She loved animals and as she became an adult with children she had no choice but to be a rescue mom for dogs. She began school at the age of four. Growing up she was involved in her high school’s extracurricular activities which included cheerleading, class VP and playing short stop on the boy’s baseball team. She was a gifted student graduating as salutatorian of her high school class.  After high school her and her friend Ruth toured the state of Wisconsin and beyond on a Harley Davidson motorcycle, no details were ever discussed. She paid her way through Rockford Business College by growing and selling cucumbers. Harriett then served in the Navy Waves during World War II earning the rank of First Class. While in the Navy she met and married Jack D. Hiatt. They had five children, Craig, Cheryl, Denise, Douglas and Jackie. As Matriarch of the family she was an amazing women and wonderful mother who always provided warm hugs and thoughtful sounding perspectives on all lessons. Harriett’s professional career as a legal secretary spanned over 50 years. She was extremely reliable, knowledgeable and took her job very seriously while relying on the bus or train to get her to her job in Waukegan. Harriett was very competitive by nature, being raised on a farm with four brothers she had to work hard and play hard just so they would include her in all the daily activities. As an avid bowler often finishing the season with a high average, high game/series and usually a trip to the State Tournament. She loved to play golf and served as the secretary for the Zions Women’s Golf League for several years. She loved to play board games and would call a cheater out in a minute. Harriett had a heart of gold and would always make herself available to anyone in need by serving as a caretaker, a taxi or a great listener. Harriett was well respected and loved by friends, colleagues and family, she will be dearly missed by all that knew her.

Harriett is survived by four children, Craig Hiatt (Linda), Cheryl Hall (Tom), Douglas Hiatt (Laura Ruckebeil) and Jackie Hiatt. 

Grand Children: Holly O’Hare (Scott), Jennifer Mackey, Lyndsay Adamson (John), Lauren Ruballo (Frank), Kimberly Hiatt, Ashley Devoe, Angela Noel (Brett), Jack Douglas Hiatt (Brittany Beaudoin).

Great Grandchildren: Allysa and McKenna O’Hare, Madison Hiatt, Kenna Mackey, Serena and Miles Adamson, Haley Noel, Terry Nixon and Ayden Devoe. Preceded in death by daughter, Denise Hiatt (Lund), great grand daughter Zoe Fox and Jack D. Hiatt.

The Family would ask that any gifts be given in memory of Harriett Hiatt to the Heartland Hospice, 2100 Sanders Rd. Suite 200, Northbrook, IL 60062, who provided our mother with excellent love and care over the past several months.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd., Zion, IL 60099, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.  Military honors for Harriett will be held at 7:00 p.m.  Interment will be private for the family.