AUBURN — Heidi Jo Lupardo passed away in Auburn on May 8 at the age of 46.

Heidi was born on Aug. 16, 1970. She graduated from Edward Little High School in 1989. Heidi worked for various employers before starting employment at the Good Shepherd Food Bank as an agency service specialist in 2001. During the 15 years Heidi worked in agency services at the Good Shepherd Food Bank, Heidi built relationships with people all over the state that wanted to help feed their neighbors. Her work helped build an entire statewide network of advocates.

Heidi inspired many a young person just coming into this work with tales of how and why the food bank all began. Heidi kept everyone connected to the roots of the Food Bank with the best storytelling about the work and legacy of JoAnn Pike. Heidi inspired everyone to keeping pushing forward to better serve those that needed help to end hunger. Millions and millions of family dinners in every inch of this state were made possible due to Heidi’s dedication and commitment. Those millions upon millions of families impacted by Heidi’s work felt thankful that someone behind the scenes cared enough to make sure they had food to serve to their families. Heidi was the caring person behind the scenes, often without a lot of recognition for the wonderful work she did. Heidi went above and beyond her job description. Heidi even helped agencies with orders despite being on vacation.

Heidi spent her life’s work nourishing neighbors and brought light, life and, laughter to all of her coworkers while she did it. Heidi was a devoted mother. She was involved in all of her children’ s activities and sporting events.

Heidi also opened up her heart and home to her children’s friends. She always made sure they had a place to stay in a time of need or a ride to a sports practice.

Heidi is survived by her three children, Drew, Dakota, and Delanie; their father, Robert Bosquet Jr. of Auburn; her father, Michael Lupardo of Auburn; her brother, Shane Lupardo and his wife, Angela of Durham; her nephew, Vincent; her best friend, Anne Thibault of Mechanic Falls; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Heidi was predeceased by her mother, Brenda Lee Lupardo in 2007.