Heidi Kay Mulac

MULAC, RUTENBECK, KEALEY

Posted By: Lisa Ciha (email)
Date: 2/14/2025 at 10:21:50

Heidi Kay Mulac, 80, died peacefully on January 27, 2025 at UIHC with her close family nearby, having lived courageously for 35 years with Multiple Sclerosis.

Heidi was born June 8th ,1944, in Iowa City, eldest daughter to Robert and Marjorie Rutenbeck. She grew up in Clinton Iowa and graduated from Clinton High School in 1962. She returned to Iowa City to attend the U of I where she studied recreational therapy and worked at the VA hospital.

Heidi married Gerald Kealey in 1968, and moved with her infant son Dave to Christchurch, New Zealand, while Kealey spent nine months as a doctor on the South Pole army base. She loved her time with the Kiwis and her small garden, where she swore she could watch the asparagus grow.

Heidi was a true Mother of the Earth. As a young mother she ground wheat she kept in her Clark Street basement to make bread. She bought her milk and eggs from local farms. She was a talented weaver, and made many beautiful rugs and quilts from discarded clothing. She taught yoga, and briefly had a clothing store called Second Hand Rose.

After divorcing, Heidi married Jim Mulac, an Iowa City book collector and piano teacher of legend. They loved to travel and explore, taking regular trips to Mexico, Chicago and California to spend time with friends and family.

Heidi had many many friends, as anyone who knew her, loved her. Despite the challenges of her life, she maintained serenity, grace, and an undaunted sense of humor.

Heidi is survived by her three sons: David (Jenner) Kealey, Brendan (Robin Hayward) Kealey, and Peter Mulac. She has five grandchildren: Ellen (Eric), Emma (Jake), Steven, Hope, and Nina; brother, Tom Rutenbeck and sister, Vicki (David) Stollmeyer. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Marjorie Rutenbeck, and her beloved husband, Jim Mulac.

The family would like to thank the staff of Briarwood Healthcare Center, Hospice nurse Peggy, her associates, and the many devoted friends who spent countless hours with Heidi and enriched her life —Erin, Hailey, Lars and Camille.

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