Kriscinda Rose Heaton, known as Kris, passed away unexpectedly on December 12, 2024, at the age of 51.  She was born on October 11, 1973, in Parkston, SD. Spent her childhood in Mitchell, Huron and Brookings, where she graduated from High School.

Kris met the love of her life, Timothy Heaton and they were united in marriage on August 17, 1996. They had six children: Paxton, Hailee, Kaitlyn, Ronna, Kyer and Kylee.

Kris worked at 3M in Brookings. She became a senior operator and was very passionate about her job. She was always the hardest worker in the room. When she wasn't working, she could be found proudly supporting her six children at all of their activities and sporting events. Kris could often be heard yelling and cheering them on in the crowd.

Kris discovered a love for traveling the world, exploring museums, and immersing herself in history. She especially loved Clearwater and Indian Rocks Beach in Florida. She had a way of making family birthdays and holidays so special.

Some other things she loved are: nature, DIY projects/shows, movies, birds, shopping, cuddling with her best dog Rocco, arts and crafts and being with her family, who she placed at the center of her world. Being Grandma to Ajax, Atlas, Rylee, Addison and Madden brought her so much joy and her love for them was indescribable.

Kris made a positive impact on everyone who was fortunate to know her. Always willing to give a hand, listening ear or shoulder to lean on. She was the life of the party with her goofy sense of humor and adorable dancing or random antics that brought smiles to everyone around her. She lived life with her heart on her sleeve, and never hesitated to speak her mind. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unforgettable memories.

Kris bravely fought ALS for about one and a half years but did not want it to define her. She was passionate about helping find a cure and donated her body to ALS research.

Kris is survived by her husband, Timothy Heaton; children: Paxton (Ashley) Heaton, Hailee (Bryan) Olson, Kaitlyn Heaton, Ronna (Seth) Gross, Kyer Heaton and Kylee Heaton; five grandchildren with two more on the way; her mother, Paulette Smith; brother, Michael Smith; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ronald Smith; brother, Greg Smith; and sister, Kim Ullom.

A memorial to celebrate Kris's life will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings, South Dakota.

Her family took every opportunity to tell Kris how much they loved her and make sure she felt their love. The family invites you to honor Kris's memory by embracing life, just as she did, with a great sense of humor, strength, and a heart full of love.