Nita Van Zandt

Nita Van Zandt of Nashua passed away on October 14 at age 65. She was the only child of Bryce Johnson and Evelyn (Plucar) Johnson.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, James Van Zandt, and their daughter, Tracy Van Zandt of Woburn, MA.

Nita earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Wichita State University, and her master’s degree in literature and writing from Rivier University. She taught writing at Rivier, and worked as a research librarian at the Rivier library for over 10 years. She was a voracious reader on wide-ranging subjects, from drawing and meditation to survival stories and fantasy. Nita was an avid traveler, enjoying trips with her family and friends to destinations near and far – including national parks, Montreal, Banff, Vancouver, Alaska, Paris and several long stays in London.

She dedicated much of her time in recent years to art, honing her sketching skills and experimenting with watercolors, collage and painting. She frequently pulled out her sketch pad to document small everyday moments at home and on her journeys.

Nita was an extraordinary wife, mother and friend, and moved through life with great curiosity, a willingness to explore and an appreciation of small things. She was an inspiration to her family and friends, and the way she lived her life will leave a lasting legacy – she will be dearly missed.

SERVICES: A Memorial Service to celebrate Nita’s life will be held at The First Church U.C.C. (Congregational), One Concord St., Nashua, at 10:00 on Saturday, October 25, with reception to follow. Her family asks that, instead of flowers, remembrances be made to the Kripalu Center, 57 Interlaken Rd., Stockbridge, MA 02162.

The Davis Funeral Home, One Lock Street, Nashua, has been placed in charge of arrangements. For further details, or to submit photos or comments, see Nita’s page at www.davis
funeralhomenh.com.

Nita’s blog with her artwork may be found at http://inktracks.blogspot.com.