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The world lost the brightly lit, shining star that was Heather Winchell on Aug. 30, 2021.

Heather, 29, is survived by her parents, Dale and Amy; siblings, Melissa and Brian Winchell; grandparents, John and Arlene; Aunt Betsy/Boots and Uncle John Macmillan; Uncle Hugh and Aunt Sylvia; Uncle Dean and Aunt Susie; and Uncle Clark and Aunt Mary Winchell; and Aunt Daryl (Winchell) and Uncle Dave Martinke, and many cousins.

Heather graduated from Valley Regional High School in 2010 and went on to study film and animation at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, Maryland. It was there that she found her niche in the 3D printing industry. Heather moved to Boston in 2017 and channeled her creativity volunteering and teaching at the Artisan’s Asylum in Somerville, Massachusetts. Dale and Amy would like to thank Heather’s roommate Nick Green and his mom Janet Grogan for being Heather’s Somerville family.

Heather was known for her laughter, positive energy, and quirky sense of humor. She always had a pet parakeet or cockatiel and loved their chirpy personalities. She loved to travel, studying abroad in Singapore and exploring all around Asia. She had multiple trips planned at all times including a cross-country drive. She was always looking ahead for the next adventure be it a new job, a music festival, or time to spend with family and friends.

Heather had struggled with bipolar disorder for much of her adult life and was managing her illness successfully until the isolation and despair of the pandemic became too much for her. Please support those in your life who are fighting this battle. In Heather’s memory, please give your loved ones an extra hug and check on how they are doing.

A private celebration of Heather’s life will be held at a later date. Donations to honor Heather’s memory may be made to either: Artisan’s Asylum, Boston, MA artisansasylum.com/donation or The Nest/A Little Compassion, Deep River, CT at alittlecompassion.org/donate-button-live. To share a memory of Heather or send a condolence to her family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.