Donald E. Van Heemst, 90, formerly of Prospect Park, NJ passed away on Thanksgiving Day 2020. He was born in Paterson, NJ on October 22, 1930 to the late Edward and Ida Van Heemst. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1950-1953. Don worked as a salesman for various businesses, was the tax collector in Prospect Park for many years and enjoyed being involved in politics at various levels including serving as secretary to the Board of Freeholders of Passaic County. A longtime member of Bethel Christian Reformed Church, he loved music and in his younger years sang a beautiful tenor in men’s groups and choirs, and led area wide church hymn sings which many enjoyed.
Don was the husband of Bertha (Siegers) until her passing in 2009. He is survived by his brother, Henry (wife Julia predeceased) and predeceased by brother Bernard (wife Helen). Don was the father of Linda (David) of Boalsburg, PA; Donald Jr. (Julie) of Broomfield, CO and Lori Martin (Brian Gilligan) of Hawthorne, NJ. There are 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
A special thanks is given to the nursing and support staff at the Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home where Don lived the last 7 years of his life.
A Celebration of Life will be arranged for summer 2021.
Memorial contributions in Don’s honor may be made to the Eastern Christian Children’s Retreat, 700 Mountain Ave, Wyckoff, NJ 07481.
An online guestbook may be signed and condolence sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.