Violeta Heilman

Violeta Heilman, 80, passed away September 10, 2026. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, September 18 at 11:30AM at Spirit of Life Catholic Church in Mandan. Burial will follow at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Visitation will be Thursday at the Bismarck Funeral Home from 5:30PM to 6:30PM with a vigil/rosary at 6:30PM. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Violeta Heilman was born on September 6, 1946 in Angeles City, Philippines. She lost her mother early in life and was raised by her aunt. She had many cousins that she helped bring up.

Education was very important to her family. Violeta was a college graduate and had worked as a teacher. She was working as an English teacher for military base in 1980 when she met the love of her life James Heilman from Carrington, ND. She was reluctant to go out with the American and only relented after they had a very intense conversation about loving Jesus. At one point in her life she had thought that she would like to have been a nun. They were married on May 24, 1980 in Angeles City, Philippines. They moved to Carrington, ND where their marriage was blessed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. James worked as a barber and Vi became a CNA.

While in Carrington they welcomed James Andrew, the light of her life. Violeta was a loving attentive mother. She was a devoted to her husband, son, and to her God. They moved to New Salem, ND in the late 90’s. James worked as a rural postal carrier and Vi continued her work as a CNA. They enjoyed cooking and hosting get togethers for the Filipino community. She was a very good cook. Especially her egg rolls! They were well loved by many.

Violeta is preceded in death by her son and husband, her parents, and many other family members. She will be remembered fondly by many.