Miriam Grace Ater

Miriam Grace Ater passed away peacefully on November 4, 2024, due to pneumonia and heart complications. Miriam was born on August 7, 1925, in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania to Aloysious and Victoria Heilman and had two brothers, Allan and Kenny, and one sister, Lois. Miriam leaves behind two daughters Diane and Patty, and one son Michael. Miriam was predeceased by her husband, Gene, and sons David and Chris. She also leaves behind five grandchildren, five great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Some of Miriam’s fondest memories were of the mountain house they had in Lake Arrowhead, California where she and her family enjoyed many long weekends and holidays. She also thoroughly enjoyed the boating trips to Catalina Island with their friend group. This was a group of lifelong friends started during the 50’s as parents at St. Lucy Catholic School in Long Beach where their children attended. They took many trips together and took turns hosting parties at one another’s houses. They had a LOT of fun together! Every Easter they would get together with their entire families for Easter brunch. Everyone would meet at a restaurant and in later years, had it catered in one of their yards. There would be forty to fifty people there. Father’s Day was one huge barbeque thrown in one of their backyards as well. They were all very close with many fond memories.

There will be a Celebration of Life in January to celebrate Miriam.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401