Berkvens, Mary Anna "Miet", Heatherton/Antigonish
On the evening of March 16, 2023, Mary Anna ‘Miet" (Vinken) Berkvens left us peacefully and quietly surrounded by family.
Mary was born in Ommel, the Netherlands, on December 6, 1928. She immigrated to Canada in 1952 as a young newlywed. In the years that followed, mom dedicated her life to family, farming and community. Her faith remained strong as she worked tirelessly in service to others. We take comfort in the knowledge that she can now be at rest.
Mom is survived by her nine children and their spouses: Harriet (Ernie), John (Judy), Fred (Brenda), Peter (Cathy), Jim (Camille) Jerry (Joan), Robert (Chloe Ann), Nellie (Wade), Theresa (Jeff); twenty-nine grandchildren and twenty-five great grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by her sister Anna in the Netherlands as well as in-laws Nellie, Jerry, Tina and Helma and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mom was predeceased by her husband of nearly sixty years, Joseph, in 2012; her granddaughter Gina; parents Harriet and Frietz, as well as siblings, Frietz, Toon, Johan, Hannie, Leen and Jan.
"And just at the moment when someone at my side says, "There she is gone!" There are other eyes watching her coming and other voices ready to take up the glad shout; "Here she comes!" And that is Dying."
Visitation will be in C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College Street, Antigonish on Tuesday, March 21st, from 6 to 9 pm. Funeral Mass will be in Immaculate Conception Church, Heatherton on Wednesday, March 22nd,at 11:00 am with Reverend Charlie Cameron presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery.
Family flowers only please but donations may be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery Fund, Heatherton, or charity of choice. Online condolences: www.clcurry.com.