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van den Heuvel 1949 2025 résidant dans la province Nova Scotia pour le détail des funérailles

Obituary of Herman van den Heuvel
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Hermanus “Herman” Antonius Maria van den Heuvel
It is with heavy hearts, the family of Herman van den Heuvel announce his passing on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Surrounded by loved ones, he took his final breath peacefully.
Herman was born on May 28, 1949, in Wanroij, Holland, to Martin and Anna (van Haare) van den Heuvel. He was the fourth of eight children. At just 20 months old, his family immigrated to Canada, where he grew up on the family farm in Antigonish Co., learning the value of hard work from an early age.
Life on the farm shaped Herman’s relentless work ethic. He took pride in every task, from milking cows and chopping firewood to hauling hay by hand. Machinery was scarce, so much of the labor was done manually—a challenge he embraced. His upbringing instilled in him a belief that effort and dedication were the foundation of a meaningful life. He often said, « If you’re going to do it, do it right, » a motto he carried through every aspect of his work and service to others.
In 1967, Herman earned his diploma in Auto Mechanics and began his career at a farm machinery dealership in Antigonish. Over the years, he worked as a mechanic, truck driver, and equipment operator, excelling in every role. In 1972, he married Anne Musial, and three years later, they purchased a dairy farm in Skye Glen, Cape Breton, where they raised five sons.
Balancing farm life with raising a large family required dedication, yet Herman still found time to give back to his community. Whether coaching hockey or volunteering with 4-H, helping out a neighbour or fellow farmer, he led by example, demonstrating that hard work and integrity were the keys to success. Even after selling the dairy farm in 1990, Herman continued his legacy of excellence, working for Zutphen Contractors up until just several months ago. He was a machinery operator and lead foreman, and took immense pride in every project, ensuring that the job wasn’t just done—but done right. His commitment to quality and strong work ethic left a lasting impact on those who worked alongside him.
Herman’s deep sense of family was at the heart of everything he did, inspiring his love for travel and time spent with loved ones. He took numerous trips with his wife, Anne, and other family members, including visits to Holland, where he reconnected with relatives and immersed himself in his native culture, enjoying the chance to fluently speak Dutch with his cousins. His travels also took him across Canada, where he cherished time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether it was family gatherings, card nights, impromptu barn visits, or hockey games, Herman made time for his friends and family. He especially valued the moments spent with his brothers, sisters, and their families, creating memories filled with laughter. His presence was a source of joy, and the time he shared with others will be fondly remembered for years to come. His laughter and quick wit were often heard, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Above all, Herman was a very loving and devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather/Opa and great grandfather. He was always there for his family with unwavering love and support. He instilled in his children the importance of honesty, perseverance, and taking pride in anything that one sets their mind to, teaching them through his examples the importance of these qualities in shaping a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Herman is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Anne of Skye Glen NS; his children Chris (Karen) of Port Hood NS, Rob (Cindy) of Coldstream BC, Brian (Cheri) of Antigonish NS, Jeff (Laili) of Texas, and Jonathan (Jennifer) of Saint John, NB; Eleven grandchildren: Jordan, Riley, Kira, Anja, Elias, Molly, Breanna, Austin, Ayla, Linden and Lauren; Six great-grandchildren: Amelia, Layna, Lucy, Thijs, Penelope, Calder, and five siblings: Rickey (William) Grover of Goshen, John van den Heuvel of Ohio, Toni “Tuddy” MacLean of Ohio, Mina (Lawrence) Long of Lock Katrine, and Peter (Elizabeth) van den Heuvel of Pomquet. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Martin and Anna, his sister Tena, brother Cornelius, brother-in-law AJ MacLean and nephew Joseph.
A Sincere note of thanks to the physicians, nurses and staff at the Inverness Memorial Hospital who cared for Herman intermittently these last few months. To the ICU staff in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro – Your kindness, professionalism and care will never be forgotten.
Visitation will take place at Dennis Haverstock Funeral Chapel in Whycocomagh on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 1-8 pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. John the Baptist Parish in Brook Village, NS. Burial to follow service in parish cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, St. John the Baptist Cemetery fund or the charity of your choice.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7
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1949 2025

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