Plan for the Future
Carla Jean Van Den Heuvel (née Massey), born on October 25, 1934, in Seroe Colorado, Aruba, Netherlands Antilles, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2024, in Chatham, New Jersey, at the age of 89. She was the beloved wife of the late William “Bill” J. Van Den Heuvel, who preceded her in death on March 14, 2008.
Charlie, as she was affectionately known, was the rock of a vibrant and affectionate family. She graduated from Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts, in 1956 with a major in piano performance. Her extraordinary life began in Aruba, and she shared forty-eight adventurous years with Bill, making twenty-six moves around the world while Bill worked at ExxonMobil – all while raising their five children. Her innate curiosity always drove her to explore the unique aspects of every place she lived, collecting art and other cultural artifacts from every country. She spoke French and understood Dutch and Spanish. She was the epitome of class, grace, and tenacity, always embodying a can-do, positive attitude and never settling for the “ordinaire.” Charlie inspired her children to strive for their best and never compromise for anything less. Family was the cornerstone of her life, and she always said that God had given her the best family she could ever have.
Carla was an accomplished piano player who passed on her love of music to her children. She also shared her passion for gardening and art with her children and grandchildren. A competitive bridge player, she achieved the status of Life Master bridge player. In her later years, she remained active and engaged with her family and friends and was always ready for the next adventure – whether it was a cruise or a trip to Europe, Africa, India, or the Caribbean.
She is survived by her five loving children, Mia Richelle, Tanya, Nicole, Jody Anne, and William Harold; her sons-in-law, Bill, Doug, Michael, and Allan; daughter-in-law Tracy; fifteen grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren, her sister Paula, and brothers, Douglas and Bruce, and her sister Barbara May who predeceased her.
A family graveside service will be held in Chester to honor and celebrate Carla’s life, followed by a family gathering at her beloved Tewksbury Inn. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and although she is no longer with us in person, her spirit will live on in our hearts forever.
The family asks that those who wish to make a contribution can make a donation to their favorite charity in Carla Jean’s name or to Butterfly Wishes ℅ Homeside Hospice, 67 Walnut Avenue, Suite 205, Clark, New Jersey 07066. Please make the payable to Butterfly Wishes with Carla’s name in the memo.
