Clyde James Heidel

Clyde Heidel, 78, of Willard, Missouri, passed away on December 27, 2025. Born on June 12, 1947, in Grand Junction, Colorado, he lived his life trying new things and perfecting what he attempted.
Clyde was the third child of Daniel Heidel and Mary. His grandparents Peter and Sophie helped care for the boys until Daniel remarried to Claudette. Raised in Grand Junction with the grace of his Lutheran family all around, he displayed those values and structure throughout his life.
Clyde moved to Stockton, Missouri, at seventeen and found Helen, the love of his life. They graduated from Stockton High School together in 1966 and were married for 59 wonderful years.
At 17, Clyde worked on Stockton Dam during initial construction in 1965 and 1966. He often told new acquaintances that he was "the individual who poured the first bucket of concrete into the Stockton Dam," a story that captured his pride in honest work and in contributing to something larger.
Clyde proudly served in the US Army spending a year in Vietnam, before venturing into two major careers as a civilian. He worked for Zales Jewelers in both Colorado and Missouri; his passion for excellence led him to succeed everywhere he went. He was never just good at his job; he was great because he always cared for his team and those he served.
Clyde entered his second major career as a Building Technology Engineer when he and Helen moved to New Jersey, where they lived for 17 years. His love of technology began early, in the 1980s, and he took great pride in continuing to learn and excel in new technology. He used his knowledge to help others and was delighted to make people smile every chance he could. His incredible heart and strong technical skills quickly made him a first choice in his field, with many requesting him by name.
Bowling was a lifelong passion, from growing up in Colorado, to his Thursday night league with friends. Along with his mother and sister, they were a family of champions. He bowled the Peterson Classic with his father, The Dutchman, and many of the nationals over the years. Clyde bowled that coveted "300" game in his 1978-1979 season. An honor he most definitely earned.
Clyde had many hobbies including fishing on Stockton Lake with his best friend, John. It was a place where he could really lean into his competitive nature. He also enjoyed playing World of Warcraft with his brother and great niece. Countless hours were spent lost in the realms, hunting and fighting, building bonds and memories that are truly cherished. Everywhere he went he made friends and tried to learn something new. He wanted to leave the world a little better than he found it.
He is preceded in death by his mother Mary and step-mother Claudette, his father Daniel, and his brothers Daniel and Gary. He leaves behind his wife Helen, two sisters Cheryl and Barbara, two brothers Kenneth and Casey, and a host of family and friends that will miss him deeply and remember him forever.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, 5 PM - 7 PM at Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, 2001 West Walnut Lawn Street, Springfield, MO. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 10 AM. After the funeral service, the Warriors Watch Riders will escort the funeral procession from the funeral home to Stockton City Cemetery, Stockton, Missouri, where full Military Honors will be rendered at 1 PM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice in his memory.
Care has been entrusted to Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, Ltd. – DeGraffenreid-Wood Crematory, Springfield, Missouri.