Jil Elaine Spangenberg Obituary

Jil Elaine Spangenberg (Heaven), age 72 of St. Helen, Michigan, formerly of Yuma, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on October 4, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 18, 1954, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Jil was the daughter of the late Robert L. and Delores (Moore) Heaven of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Jil graduated from Michigan State University, and went on to marry Mark John Spangenberg, of Sparta, Michigan. Jil will be remembered for her humorous and spontaneous approach to life, as well as her love for good food and wine. When she was not traveling, Jil loved window shopping for antiques and was an avid NASCAR fan. Jil was preceded in death by her husband, Mark J. Spangenberg; sisters Toni Williams, and Mary Jankowski (Richard); and brothers Robert D. Heaven (Beth), and Randy Heaven. She is survived and dearly missed by her sister, Phyllis Liscombe (Gary); son, Derek Palmer (Shirley); daughters Elissa Roberts and Billie Jo Palmer; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and many good friends near and far. To expand knowledge for future generations, Jil has elected to donate her remains to scientific study. A celebration of life will be held later at a date to be determined.