Joan Marie (Aernouts) Heslinga

Joan Marie Heslinga, 76 of Hopkins, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at her home. Born September 1, 1947, in New London, CT, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Sr. and May (Rose) Aernouts and the wife of Alan Heslinga. Joan loved her family and was devoted to them, providing a loving and welcoming home.  She was a member of her church for over 45 years, where she served with joy and humility. Joan enjoyed singing in the choir and being an active member. She was also a member of the Ladies For The Lord group and a former member of the Red Hat Society, where she formed many enduring friendships.

In her professional life, Joan worked diligently as a housekeeper for Prince/Johnson Controls. Previously, she worked at Lifesavers where she met the love of her life, Alan.  Her strong work ethic and attention to detail was appreciated by all who worked with her. Despite her busy schedule, Joan always found time for her varied interests that brought her so much joy. She loved to cook, frequently delighting her family and friends with her delicious creations. She was also skilled at sewing, often creating beautiful things for herself and others. Traveling was another of Joan's passions. She enjoyed taking color tours, where she marveled at the beauty of nature. She, Alan and the dogs loved going for rides looking for deer and sandhill cranes.  Joan also loved dining out, with breakfast being her favorite meal of the day. She was a regular at many local restaurants, where she was known for her friendly demeanor and infectious laugh. Joan also enjoyed camping trips and spent many happy hours around the bonfire with her family. She also had a passion for animals, and loved all her pets, especially her newest fur baby, Jasper.

Joan is survived by her adoring husband, Alan Heslinga; her children, Anita Hall, Wallace Hall III, David Heslinga, Jaime (Chad) Sauer, and Melanie Heslinga; ten grandchildren, Sam, Dakoda, Nicholas, Amanda (Beau), Kamarie, Jonas, Noah, Keegan, Jaiden, and Rylan; three great-grandchildren, Elijah, Isaiah, and Jaxtyn; and one sister, Linda (Bill) Brown.  Along with her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her daughter, Nieko Hall; and three grandchildren, Ashley Powers, Jay Powers, and Lena Selvig.

Joan Marie Heslinga was a beacon of light in every life she touched. Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will continue to shine in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the many lives she touched.

Friends may meet with the family on Friday, November 17, 2023 at the Hopkins Community Church from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at which time the funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., Pastor Jonathon VanderWall officiating.  Burial will take place at Maplewood Cemetery, Hopkins Township, with a luncheon at the church to follow the burial. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s name to a charity of your choice.

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