Heidi Anne Brockleman Schmelz passed away peacefully Jan. 15, 2026. She was 68 years old.
Heidi was born June 5, 1957, in Boston to Patricia and Anton Brockleman. She grew up in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, with her sister and brother, Kristen and Mark. She loved her hometown dearly and maintained many Old Rochester High School friends throughout her life.
Heidi earned a bachelor’s degree from Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, where she majored in geology. She met many dear friends at Bates, including her loving husband of 39 years, Steven.
Heidi and Steve moved to Boston after graduation, then to New Jersey to start their family. They settled in Monmouth Beach, where they raised their four children: Kristina, Tyler, Anton and Anabel.
Heidi was a devoted wife and mother. She spent a lot of time at the beach and skiing and riding her bike with her family. She especially loved watching the sunset with her family on Long Beach Island.
Heidi was predeceased by her sister and best friend, Kristin; her husband, Steven; and her father, Anton. She is survived by her mother, Patricia; her brother, Mark; her children; and seven, soon to be eight, grandchildren, Michael, Nathaniel, Wyatt, Eliza, Theo, Ryerson and Rose.
The family hosted a memorial service Jan. 25 at the Molly Pitcher Inn in Red Bank.
The article originally appeared in the January 29 – February 4, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
