ORANJESTAD, Aruba — The Justine Hart Women’s Club Legacy is being remembered following the death of Justina “Justine” Hart Bukowitz, a Life Member who dedicated more than 50 years to friendship, volunteer service and community support in Aruba.
The Women’s Club of Aruba expressed deep sadness over the loss of a longtime member whose loyalty, kindness and generosity remained part of the organisation throughout most of her life on the island.
Hart died on July 27, 2026, at age 91.
Aruba Became Her Home in 1970
Justine married Oscar “Nechi” Hart in 1970 and made Aruba her permanent home.
Soon after her arrival, Mildred Harms introduced her to the Women’s Club of Aruba. She officially joined the organisation on February 8, 1971, beginning a relationship with the club that continued for more than five decades.
At the time, many club members had arrived in Aruba from different parts of the world. The organisation offered them opportunities to form friendships, participate in community activities and develop a sense of belonging.
Justine created lasting relationships with members including Jeannette Kort, Marie Thérèse Croes, Raquel Perez and Raiza Wilson.
Club Workshops Created Lasting Memories
Justine fondly remembered the workshops and practical activities organised by the Women’s Club of Aruba.
She participated in lessons involving snorkeling, sewing and cake decorating, discovering abilities she had not previously explored.
One of her favourite memories was decorating the first birthday cake for her daughter, Alyssa. She later recalled with humour and pride that the creation had turned out “quite well.”
These workshops offered members more than recreational activities. They created opportunities to learn, build confidence and strengthen friendships within the club.
Hart Served in Several Leadership Roles
Justine’s contribution extended beyond attending meetings and activities.
She served in several leadership and committee positions, including:
- Responsibility for the club telephone directory in 1974–1975;
- President of the Historical and Cultural Committee in 1978–1979;
- General board member in 1985–1986 under President Marie Thérèse Croes;
- Participation in the Clean Committee and Study Group.
Her involvement reflected a long-term commitment to supporting the organisation’s administration, cultural activities and community work.
She Devoted Years to Caring for Her Husband
In 1987, Justine’s husband suffered a severe stroke.
For almost 20 years, she cared for him with patience, compassion and devotion. Despite the demands of caregiving, she maintained her connection with the Women’s Club of Aruba.
Whenever circumstances allowed, she attended general meetings and found support, encouragement and companionship among her longtime friends.
The club also remembered with gratitude the assistance received from Panaderia Moderna, including bread and cakes donated by Nechi Hart for activities benefiting children and adults.
Life Membership Recognised Four Decades of Service
On February 8, 2011, exactly 40 years after she joined, the Women’s Club of Aruba honoured Justine as a Life Member.
The recognition acknowledged her loyalty, willingness to serve and lasting contribution to the organisation.
Even when declining health later prevented her from attending meetings, she continued supporting the club’s fundraising activities whenever possible.
Dress a Child Held Special Meaning
The Women’s Club’s Dress a Child project held a particularly important place in Justine’s heart.
The initiative’s focus on helping children reflected the generosity and concern for others that characterised her life.
A donation box supporting Dress a Child was made available during her farewell service, allowing relatives and friends to honour her through a cause she valued deeply.
Family and Club Members Share Their Loss
Justine’s official obituary identified her beloved daughter, Alyssa Rose Hart, among the relatives mourning her passing.
Her farewell was held on August 1 at the Royal Funeral Home, followed by a brief service and burial at the Catholic Cemetery in Oranjestad.
The Women’s Club of Aruba extended its deepest condolences to Alyssa, the wider family and everyone who loved Justine.
Members remembered her sincerity, smile, friendship, attentiveness and willingness to help others.
Legacy Continues Through Service and Friendship
The Justine Hart Women’s Club Legacy lives on through the friendships she cultivated, the community programmes she supported and the example she provided during more than half a century of membership.
Her life demonstrated that service can take many forms—from leadership and fundraising to caregiving, friendship and simply being present for others.
The Women’s Club of Aruba said it will continue honouring her memory with gratitude while celebrating a life lived with love, generosity and purpose.
May Justine rest in peace.
