Nelson M. Heraldo

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Nelson M. Heraldo who was indeed a born leader. He was a person who possessed a strong work ethic and was loyal to his family and friends.

Nelson was born on October 11, 1947 in La Fortuna Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte, Philippines. His parents were Alberto Villacruz Heraldo and Bernardina Apinado Molina. Nelson was raised in the Philippines along with his five siblings. He had an older sister Remedios, and four younger siblings, Edwin, Evelyn, Gilbert and Ramel. Nelson was the oldest son and took on great responsibility to help his family since he was a young boy. Nelson enjoyed playing basketball and other ball games, swimming, and playing outside with his cousins.

In school, Nelson was as close to being a model student as one could possibly imagine. He would eagerly complete his homework, and often put in extra study time when he felt it was necessary. A logical and focused thinker, Nelson was always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or were self-imposed. Nelson learned that education and hard work were essential keys to success. He graduated from Jose Panganiban High School in 1965. His favorite class in high school was Math.

Nelson's practical work ethic carried over into his college years. His logical mind permitted him to work hard without succumbing to the usual distractions of college life. After 3 years of studying Mechanical Engineering at Mapua Institute of Technology, Nelson joined the U.S. Navy in 1968. He did not want to join the Navy initially, but saw it as an opportunity to complete his education without burdening his parents who had two help pay for his siblings' college education. He also earned his A.A. degree as an Electronic Technician at Bay Valley Tech in 1980.

Nelson was shy but loyal to all he cared for. He enjoyed the camaraderie of his many cousins. He wasn't afraid to confront his friends and, when necessary, he challenged them to stick to the task at hand. Those close to Nelson came to expect his high standards of performance. While growing up, some of his best friends were Eddie Santos and other cousins of the family.
An objective and conscientious individual, Nelson reveled in the security of his family. On December 9, 1972, Nelson exchanged wedding vows with Viola Donato Antonio. One of Nelson's most endearing qualities was his uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries, and his enthusiasm for bringing family and friends together to watch sports or to celebrate special occasions.

Nelson was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. He maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. He had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his children were properly raised. Nelson was blessed with four children, one daughter, Aimee, and three sons, Ray, Tim and Stephen. He was also blessed with five grandchildren Kyle, Luke, Gavin, Cole, and Jacob.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Nelson was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was a handy-man and was able to fix almost anything- from home to car repairs. He was gifted with the ability to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent project supervisor, Nelson was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Nelson upheld his standards. His primary occupation was as a planner estimator for General Services Administration, a branch of the Federal Government. He was employed for 38 years by the Federal Government. Nelson was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of "give me a job, and I will get it done."

Nelson was a U.S. Navy veteran and served for nearly 10 years. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of 1st Class Petty Officer. He received several awards recognizing him for his heroism, including a National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Award (twice).

Nelson loved his leisure time. His favorite pursuits were golfing, playing cards, bowling, and gardening. Nelson enjoyed his favorite pastimes with good family and friends. Throughout the years, he continued to stay active by playing recreational basketball, golf and bowling. He also was a sports fan and made time to watch his favorite events. Tops on his list were football, basketball, and boxing.

Being generous with his time and energy, Nelson liked to belong to a variety of groups and organizations. He was a vocal leader who enjoyed being a part of things. His desire to uphold traditions and his ability to take charge of any type of project made him a tremendous asset. In high school, Nelson was a member of the ROTC.

Faith in God was important to Nelson. He held high moral standards and was worried about the moral decay he saw around him. For that reason he held deep spiritual beliefs that he was willing to share. He was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church in San Jose, California for 18 years. During that time, he participated in the Finance Committee, Eucharistic Ministry, and was a Leader in Baptism Classes, as well as, served as Marriage Preparation Counselor.

As someone who placed a high value on showing gratitude, Nelson could graciously accept a "thank you" extended to him by those he helped. However, individual recognition wasn't a motivating force for Nelson; rather, when he saw that there was a need to get something done, he was more than willing to give his time and energy in order to see it accomplished. Some of his most prestigious awards included the Commendable Service Award by the U.S. General Service Administration in 1994, and a promotion to District Leader of Primerica in 2002. He also earned his Electrician Contractor's License and started his own business - STAR Electric in 1987.

When it came time to travel or take a vacation, Nelson used his scheduling expertise to make sure everyone and everything was ready to go. That also meant that he made certain no single person was overworked in putting the trip together. Nelson had a knack for making sure that everyone who was involved had their specific tasks and that those tasks were completed. Favorite vacations included cruise trips and visiting family from out of town.

When Nelson's retirement finally arrived in 2006, he was well prepared. He used his critical evaluation skills to make sure that every detail had been preplanned and attended to. In retirement, he found new pleasure in playing golf and playing with his grandsons. In many ways, Nelson loved retirement. It provided him with the opportunity to catch up with his friends, travel, attend group outings, and tackle new interests such as obtaining his real estate license.

Nelson passed away on July 23, 2011 at Regional Medical Center in San Jose, California. He fought tirelessly in a brave battle against lung cancer. He is survived by his wife Viola; his 4 children Aimee who is married to Elias Tijerina with sons Kyle, Luke and Jacob, Ray Heraldo who is married to Redela Culaton-Heraldo with sons Gavin and Cole, Timothy Heraldo who is married to Christine Cheng Heraldo, and Stephen Heraldo. Services were held at Oak Hill Funeral Home in the Chapel of the Oaks in San Jose, California. Nelson was laid to rest in Oak Hill Memorial Park on July 30, 2011.

He was an honorable man and lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground and his faith in God. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Nelson M. Heraldo was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, and friend. He is loved, will be missed, but his legacy he left behind will never be forgotten.