Leongatha mushroom deaths: Heather Wilkinson Victorian public memorial
Heather Wilkinson, the third person to die after eating a lethal mushroom lunch in Leongatha, will be farewelled in a public memorial.
Victoria
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The third victim of a deadly mushroom meal will be honoured at a public memorial service in Leongatha next week.
Heather Wilkinson, 66, died of suspected poisoning after eating a beef wellington dish at a family lunch on July 29.
The former teacher’s aide will be remembered at a service on October 4.
It’s understood the Wilkinson family is still working out the logistics of the day with full details to be confirmed later this week.
In a tribute published online, family said Ms Wilkinson’s life was “well lived”.
“Beloved wife, daughter, sister, mum, favourite mother-in-law, grandma, and friend to many,” it read.
“Hers was a life well lived, and we love her. Dearly missed until we meet again. At home with her Lord Jesus.”
The tribute also thanked the healthcare staff who looked after Ms Wilkinson on her final days.
“We wish to acknowledge the exceptional care and kindness shown to Heather and our family by all hospital staff, from the transport team to the ICU teams,” it read.
“Their dedication and expertise were unparalleled, and we are profoundly grateful.
“We are thankful for the remarkable healthcare available in Australia and are mindful of the many around the world in need of basic healthcare services.”
It comes as Ms Wilkinson’s sister, Gail Patterson, and brother-in-law, Don Patterson were farewelled at Korumburra Recreation Centre last month.
Ms Wilkinson’s husband, Ian Wilkinson, was left fighting for life but was discharged from hospital on Friday.
It’s believed Ms Wilkinson’s public memorial was delayed to allow her husband to attend.
His recovery has been called a “miracle” by his close-knit community.
“Everyone in this community and even the outskirts have felt and been praying seriously on their knees for his recovery,” local Trevor Shaw said.
“And those prayers have been answered, he’s home.
“It’s still in progress, but what a wonderful thing.”
Victoria Police confirmed the deaths were being treated as “unexplained” with the investigation ongoing.
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