Heather Lynn Jernstad, age 51, of Elgin, IL, passed away on June 20, 2024. She was born August 23, 1972 in Crystal Lake, IL to her loving parents, Jan and Sandi (née Wheeler) Brenner.

Heather graduated from Crystal Lake Central High School, Class of 1990, then graduated from Northern Illinois University in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. She was a registered nurse, and worked at The University of Chicago for eight years as a Clinical Research Nurse Manager, and at Sherman Hospital for seven years as the Oncology Nurse Navigator. Her patients loved her as she always put their care before herself.

Heather met her husband, Eric, while boating in Fox Lake. They were happily married for 19 years, and together raised one son.

Heather was extremely smart, and passionate about everything she did. She was the most selfless person, always striving to go above and beyond in her care for her patients. She was very strong and determined, the kind of nurse everyone would want.

She was overjoyed when her son, Logan, was born in 2007, as she had been told she couldn’t conceive. She adored spending time with him, and watching him play football. In addition to caring for her family and patients, she doted on her three dogs, Mya, Tucker, and Bear. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially in the Fall.

Heather beat ovarian cancer for six years before she couldn’t fight anymore. She is survived by her proud husband, Eric Jernstad; son, Logan Jernstad; parents, Jan and Sandi Brenner; aunt and uncle, Denny and Angie McAuley; cousins, Amy and Garret Wheeler; and three dogs, Mya, Tucker, and Bear.

Interment will be private.

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.