Third generation Napa native, Frank A. Heid Jr. passed away at his home in the early morning hour of June 21, 2015. Aged 92, Frank was born August 18, 1922, in a home where the Buttercream Bakery now stands. The oldest of four sons born to Frank A. and Emma (Weimers) Heid, Frank epitomized the core values characteristic of the “greatest generation”. A man of unmatched integrity, generous spirit and loving kindness, his life was well-lived and one of dedication to his family. Losing his father at an early age (eleven), Frank became a caring older sibling to his younger brothers and a valued support to his widowed mother.

A 1940 Napa High School graduate, where he excelled in the classroom and on the football field alike (MVP 1939), Frank attended Stanford University for a year, until family situations required his return to Napa. Following a brief time at Mare Island’s apprentice electrician program, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was called to service in early 1943. Stationed in Manduria, Italy as a member of the 721st squadron of the 450th Bomb Group (Cottontails), Frank piloted 37 missions in a B24 “Liberator”; later receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal.

Returning to Napa soon after the war, he worked for Tom Townsend Engineering and subsequently, with his brother Robert, established Heid and Heid Engineering and Surveying, located for many years on Firth Street adjacent to the Hatt Building. As a surveyor, Frank traversed many, many miles in Napa County and is responsible for countless survey maps of the region. Always the professional, Frank was well respected in the business community.

Throughout his life he enjoyed membership in such organizations as 20-30 Club, Napa Engineers Society, (President, 1957) Kiwanis, ELKS and SIR, Branch 149 (BIG SIR 1993). Additionally, he and Jeanne enjoyed travel experiences with several trailer groups and adventures in their antique business, Granny’s Attic.

He is survived by Jeanne, his wife of 71 years (!), his four children, Nancy (Dave) Wildman, Joyce (John) Wiggin, Beth (Rob) Heid-Wright and Bruce (Carole) Heid, all of Napa; his grandchildren, Christine, Jeremy and Sarah Wildman; Ian, Tyler and Lucas Heid; Erin (Evan) Schumacher, Allison (Jamie) Kent; great-grandson Cadel Schumacher and brother Harry Heid, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

“Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring and integrity, they think of you.”

A Celebration of Life is planned for a future date. Memorial donations my be made to a charity of donor’s choice.