Ray was born on July 22, 1932 in Warren, Ohio to Adam “Ray” Heidelberg and Frances Josephine “Jo” (Silk) Heidelberg. He was later joined by younger brothers Tom and Billy as well as a cousin, William, whom Ray considered his brother. Ray grew up and joined the army in 1952 where he served two years during the Korean conflict. Upon being discharged from the Army, Ray relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where he met the love of his life, Nancy L. Van Den Berge, while working together at a local bank. Ray and Nancy married in Chicago on June 4, 1955 after dating for only a few months. After working a variety of jobs early in their marriage, Ray had a long career as a truck driver. Driving a truck was a perfect fit for his adventurous spirit.
During their 63 years of marriage, Ray and Nancy welcomed nine children, 25 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. Ray and Nancy moved several times during their marriage, ultimately settling on six acres in Chaparral, NM where they loved the open country and desert climate. Ray will always be known as the heart of the Heidelberg family and the Cub’s biggest fan. He was a loving father, amazing grandfather, and man who never met a stranger. His comedic wit and wonderful sense of humor always brought laughter and joy to any situation. He was a devoted husband who loved and cared for his wife Nancy until the very end.
Ray has joined his parents and brothers in heaven and is survived by his wife Nancy, children and spouses Debbie Stoner (Ronnie), Ray Heidelberg (Debbie), Joanne Rink (John), Bret Heidelberg (Leticia), Maryann Westerbur (Don), Gretchen Suniga (Eddie), Nancy Salvatti (Michael), Cathy Lambert (Scott), Amanda Rodriguez (Alejandro), as well as his grandchildren, great grandchildren and countless family and friends.
Visitation will be on Sunday, January 6, 2019 from 5:00-9:00 PM at Martin Funeral Home, 3839 Montana Avenue, El Paso, TX 79903, with rosary at 7:00 PM. Funeral mass will be held on Monday, January 7, 2019 at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Church located at 568 E. Lisa Drive, Chaparral, NM, with burial to follow immediately at Desert View Cemetery in Chaparral, NM.
