Nelson R. Heim

Nelson Ronald Heim “Bud” “Heimy”, 83 of Laureldale passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on September 22, 2025. Nelson was born on December 18, 1941. He was the youngest child of Nelson A. And Margaret E. (Burkhart) Heim.

Bud was a patriot who proudly served his country for 2 years as a U. S. Army reservist from 1965 - 1967. He was a very giving man who gave selflessly for 25 years as a firefighter in the City of Reading. Never a man who was afraid of work, he was proud to tell you he rode ambulance and spent 60 plus years tending bar at various places. Over the years you could find him behind the bar at Central Fire Company, Lower Alsace Fire Company, Victor Emmanuel’s, Green Valley Country Club and lastly at The Northmont Fellowship Club where he served his last drink at 80 years old. 

In his spare time, he loved music and dancing. He learned how to play the drums later in life and thoroughly enjoyed when he got to “sit in” for a song or two. He also loved a good game of cards, pinochle being his favorite. On the weekends he could be found enjoying time with “the guys” at The Fairgrounds Farmer’s Market. Being a very talented athlete, he loved everything sports. He especially loved bowling, horse racing and baseball. He was a life long Red Sox fan but a converted Phillies fan even if he never admitted it!

What brought him the most joy was spending time with his family. He is survived by his children; Denise Esterly (Jeffrey), Lori Fritz (Allen), Michele Calvaresi, Ronald Heim, and Melissa Durinzi (Armando Jr.). Also surviving him are his grandchildren; Jesse Esterly, Kirsten Stackhouse, Kailey Esterly, Sarah Fritshaffer, Ethan Fritz, Courtney Shaub, Kate-Lynn Shaub, Armando Durinzi III, and Andre Durinzi along with his great grandchildren; Kyle, Rylee, Jaxon, Ava, Sienna, Gabriel, Adriana, Logan, Miles, Callie, Kyra, and Maya.

He was preceded in death by his siblings that he loved dearly, Gerald, Robert, Richard, Carl, Clair (Hank), and his only sister, Rose. Bud is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Last but certainly not least, he was an animal lover of all kinds. He especially loved his cats and dogs. He was preceded in death by his beloved Gracie and Snuffles. His cat Rosie will miss him terribly.

Bud will be remembered fondly for his great sense of humor and his long list of one-liners. We would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Laurel Pointe and AccentCare for taking great care of Bud. He enjoyed his time spent with you.

A Funeral Service will be held at Bean Funeral Homes 1605 Rockland Street Reading, PA 19604 on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 11:00am. Interment will follow at Berks County Memorial Gardens. The family will receive relatives and friends from 9:00am-11:00am. Online condolences may be made to www.beanfuneralhomes.com.