Van Heighten, Josina Antonia, 92,  of the R.K. MacDoanld Nursing Home, formerly of Salt Springs, Antigonish Co., passed away on Monday in the nursing home.

Born in Asten, Holland, she was a daughter of the late Johannus and Francisca (Boerkamp) Haazen.  She had 13 siblings, of which 2 sisters also immigrated and settled in Antigonish Co.

Josina and her husband Arnold immigrated to Canada in 1953, coming through Pier 21.  They arrived with four small children and for nine years  lived in Margaree, Cape Breton.   Subsequently, they purchased a farm in Salt Springs, Ant. Co. where they settled and raised their seven children.    Josina was the definition of hardworking and embraced farming, especially gardening, but made sure she had time to enjoy life and have fun.   She loved music, dancing, bowling, cycling, and in her later years, travelling.  Josina's kind spirit and love for people is what compelled her to put others ahead of herself.  She was a long time member (Lioness) of the Antigonish Lion's Club. 

She is survived by  her children:  Zita Hogen, Boston;  Peter (Chrissy), Saltsprings, Ant. Co.; Cathy (Leo) MacDonald, Brierly Brook;  Hans (Herma), Ontario;  Mia (Neil) DeCoff, Guysborough Intervale;  Arnold (Louise), Ontario.;  Gerard (Aileen), Pinevale;  16 grand children;  24 great grandchildren and  1 great grandchild;  sister, Rita Van Bommel, Antigonish.

Predeceased by her husband of over 50 years Arnold and sister, Antonia Van Der Putten of Lochaber.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 2-4pm and 7-9pm in C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College St. Antigonish.  Funeral Mass will be held on Friday at 11:00am in St. Ninian Cathedral, Reverend Donald MacGillivray presiding.   Burial in the Parish Cemetery. 

Memorial donations may be made to the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home Foundation or a charity of choice.  Online condolence:  www.clcurry.com