Longtime Weslaco Chamber volunteers leave behind legacy of service

For the past 20 years, Walter and Barbara Heid have been faithful volunteers at the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce.  After living in the Mid Valley for 20 years, the Heids have decided to head back home to Missouri to be closer to family.  Their time spent here, much like the rest of their married life together, has been spent in giving of themselves and their time through volunteerism.

Just a month after moving to South Texas in 1993, Walter and Barbara began volunteering at the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce.  Walter’s previous work had also included economic development which sparked his interest in the chamber.  When they began volunteering, the Weslaco Chamber was at Pike and Expressway 83.  The Heids have worked at three of the Chamber’s locations, including the most recent temporary location on Texas Blvd.  In addition, the Heids have worked under five Chamber presidents, working the longest with current president/CEO Martha Noell.  Walter and Barbara have always been strong advocates for Weslaco and all that it has to offer.  Their volunteer work for the chamber has had them promoting Weslaco in over 50 booths at various trade and travel shows, going as far as Harrisburg, PA. 

In addition to their volunteer work at the Weslaco Chamber, the Heids have volunteered at Estero Llano Grande State Park, Frontera Audubon, Valley Nature Center, the Scenic Wetlands in Edinburg, and the Weslaco Public Library.  With a clear passion for nature and its conservation, Walter and Barbara have also spent summers volunteering at national parks, forests and wildlife refuges all over the United States.  Walter and Barbara have also served on the board of directors for Valley Nature Center, Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge, and the Donna Museum. 

For a couple who has traveled to all 50 states and every continent in the world, you might wonder what comes next for Walter and Barbara Heid.  Slowing down is definitely not an option.

“We plan to travel as long as we can,” remarked Barbara.  “Our goal is to travel to New Guinea for Walter’s 80th birthday next year.”

Throughout the years, the Heids have made a conscious decision to make the most out of life and all the experiences it has to offer.

“We just enjoy everything we do,” Barbara added.

The Weslaco Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Walter and Barbara Heid for all their years of service and commitment to Weslaco and the Mid-Valley area.