Kristin Joyce (Hiestand), age 29, of Portage, passed away on September 6, 2026. She was born on February 21, 1997, in Crown Point, Indiana.

Kristin had a wonderful sense of humor from the very beginning—even as a toddler, she had a gift for making people laugh and would light up a room with her smile. When she smiled, it radiated from her whole existence. She treasured her friendships and genuine human connection, and her caring, empathetic nature touched the lives of those around her. Wherever she was, Kristin always had music on and if anyone else was around, she was the DJ choosing what songs played. Music brought her joy and comfort.

Kristin had a special bond with her Papa Ivan and Grandma Pam. Some of her happiest memories were made with her family on the lake and in the North Woods of Wisconsin, where they enjoyed fishing, taking boat rides and watching loons together. She had a deep respect and love for nature and the wild, and she found beauty and meaning in the natural world.

Kristin could talk to anyone and befriended people organically. She was naturally drawn to caring for others and had a special tenderness for the sick and elderly, as well as caring for plants and animals, especially cats. Her beloved cat, Malcolm, was her baby and will remain a cherished part of her memory.

Kristin is survived by her mother, Nerissa (Jeff Owens) Hiestand; her grandmother, Pamela Hiestand; her aunt, Holly (Jeff) Wheeler; cousin who was like a sister, Kaylin Keilman; along with cousins Dane Wheeler, Tate Wheeler, and Phoebe Wheeler; and many loving family members and friends who will miss her silly ways, her smile and her laugh. To those who knew her best, Kristin will forever be remembered as a free spirit.

We want to recognize Kristin’s accomplishments toward her last few months of life: she attended recovery centers, journaled often to heal, received counseling, began reading more and succeeded at living a clean life for large periods of time. Kristin also possessed a very determined and stubborn spirit. In the end, we believe she was ready to be at peace.

She was preceded in death by her beloved papa, Ivan Hiestand; and her aunt, Tamara Hiestand.

To honor Kristin’s life, immediate family and close friends will gather at a later date. The family will also be sharing how others can help causes Kristin cared about by accepting donations for women at recovery centers in Indiana and possibly pet fostering organizations.

Cremation was entrusted to Rees Funeral Home, Brady Chapel. For more information, please call (219) 962-1606. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.