Bishop Capistran F. Heim, OFM, 86

Bishop Capistran F. Heim, OFM, 86 — a professed Franciscan friar for 60 years, a priest for 54 and a bishop for 32 years who spent his active ministry in missionary work — died on Sept. 24 at Teresian House.

Born in Catskill on Jan. 21, 1934, to Joseph and Anna (McEntee), Bishop Heim was baptized William Charles. He attended St. Patrick’s Academy in Catskill. Starting in 1954, Bishop Heim served three years in the U.S. Army as the Korean War was winding down. After his service, he enrolled in Siena College, however, he decided to pursue a religious vocation, entering the Franciscan seminary in Callicoon. He professed first vows on July 15, 1960, and on Dec. 18, 1965, was ordained to the priesthood.

Bishop Heim completed his theological studies in Petropolis, Brazil, where he learned Portuguese and prepared to serve in the Franciscan missions in Goias, Brazil. In São Miguel do Araguaia, located in the state of Goias, he began his 47 years of ministry in the country.

In 1988, he was ordained bishop for the Prelacy of Itaituba in northern Brazil and served until 2011, when, at the age of 77, his resignation was accepted by the Vatican. Bishop Heim returned to the United States and lived with and was cared for by his brothers of Holy Name Province until his death.

Bishop Heim is survived by a sister, Anne Heim of Leeds, a brother, Joseph Heim of Catskill, nephews, Daniel and Douglas, and niece, Susan Tucker.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Sept. 26 in St. Mary of the Angels Chapel at Siena College followed by burial at St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands.

Memorial donations in Bishop Heim’s name can be sent to Franciscan Friars – Holy Name Province, 144 West 32nd St., New York, N.Y., 10001-3202.