Robert Leonard Heid

Born on June 18, 1943, in Denver, Colorado, Bob was the beloved son of Bertha “Bea” (nee Weishaupl) Heid. Biological father Rudolph “RL” Heid. He was raised by his mother and supported by her devoted brothers—especially Joe, Frank, and Harry—and Frank’s son Robert “Jack” and wife Mary who helped shape the strong, loving family foundation that guided Bob throughout his life.

Bob attended Englewood High School and North Western College before beginning a long and accomplished career with NCR (National Cash Register), Mountain Bell (Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph), and later US West following the Bell System breakup in 1984. Later, together with his wife Elena, they worked for Split Pines, a thriving business specializing in cable system installations for buildings and SCIFs.

Bob’s family was his heart. He is survived by his devoted wife, Elena Heid (nee Johnson), who was truly the light of his world. He was a loving father to Rebecca McNaughton (Dennis) and a proud stepfather to Michelle Dotson (David) and Leanna Grahl and former stepson William Schaub. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved son, Robert Heid Jr., whom he missed every day. His son’s memory lives on through the deep affection of Deborah, his cherished daughter in law. A lifelong Catholic, Bob was grounded in his faith, which guided his values and the way he cared for those he loved.

Bob embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity, and his hobbies reflected that spirit. He loved spending time outdoors—boating, camping, fishing, and hunting—and found quiet joy in reading and endless rounds of computer solitaire. When boredom struck, online shopping kept him well entertained. In retirement, Bob discovered a new passion and became a certified Bob Ross painting instructor. His paintings—mountains, wildlife, and even portraits—fill the homes of nearly every family member. He delighted in teaching others and managed to turn many relatives into students, convincing them to pick up a brush and share in the creativity he cherished.

He was “Papa,” “Uncle,” “Grampa,” “Santa” and “Senior” to a large and joyful family. His grandchildren include Ricky Mefford Jr. (Zhen), Robert Heid III (Amy), Terrie Bauer (Todd), and Brenda Heid (Travis Bagley). His step grandchildren include Jessica, Alicia, Valerie and Megan Aultman. Step-grandchildren Christopher Grahl (Ashly), Tommy, and Desirae Rowcliffe, were eventually adopted as Bob and Elena’s children. His great grandchildren brought him tremendous joy: Ricky III aka Koa (Nevaeh), William aka Kale, Ziva, Elexis, Shayla, Robert IV, Zemirah, Gunner, Ravyn (deceased), Torin, Talison, Patrick, Logan, Jacob, Madison, Vinny, Gabriel, Carol Lee, Johnny, Jase, Natalie, Chris Jr., Skyy-Monroe, Elena-Rain, Ekene, and Riley.

Bob shared lifelong bonds with those he considered brothers, including JL, his friend of more than 50 years, and Jim Baldwin. He was also deeply connected to his extended family: cousins he considered sisters—Mary Weishaupl Scribner (deceased) and Elizabeth Weishaupl—and niece Emma Weishaupl, whom he was overjoyed to help bring home from China.

He is preceded in death by his mother Bea (December 19, 2000), his son Bob (February 12, 2026), his great granddaughter Ravyn (December 5, 2024), and cousin Mary (January 2, 2026).

Those who knew Bob will forever remember his gift for connection. He didn’t know a stranger. Elena often brought a book when they went anywhere including to the gas station, knowing Bob would end up chatting with anyone he met—giving rise to the family’s term “neighboring.” If Bob met you, you were part of his circle. He was dependable to his core; once, his daughter confidently told a friend to call her dad for help during a move, knowing without hesitation that Bob would show up for anyone in need.

Bob was a brother to his cousins, a devoted son who honored his mother’s wish to remain at home until her care surpassed what he could provide, and above all, a father whose home was a safe haven. Nearly all of his children, adopted children, and stepchildren lived with Bob and Elena at different points in their lives, welcomed with open arms, generosity, and unconditional love. He would do anything for them—he even helped his son build a house, treasuring the shared time and memories far more than the labor.

As a husband, Bob’s devotion to Elena was unwavering. Whether typing her college papers or preparing dinner from his wheelchair, he always put her first and encouraged others to do the same. Their partnership was deep, joyful, and steadfast.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of kindness, connection, loyalty, and wholehearted love. He touched countless lives and will be missed more than words can express.

A Catholic Mass will be held in Bob’s honor in late August. Details will be shared as they become available.