Pete Lolkema

Pete Lolkema embarked on his final journey home on July 4, 2025. He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by dedicated caregivers and his three children. Before marrying his beloved wife, Joan (Ooms) Lolkema, Pete served in the Army Reserves. He was a proud Gold Card member of Carpenters Local 599. Following his retirement, he pursued his passion for furniture building, where he made it, and Joan finished it. The running joke was, she always made him look good. In addition to woodworking, Pete enjoyed hobby farming, particularly growing hay, but his true joy came from cultivating and donating sweet corn, a community favorite.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Joan (Ooms) Lolkema, and sister Sharon Damron. 

He is survived by his daughter, Bonnie (Garry Newland), son Bryan (Kerrie) Lolkema, daughter Brenda (Scott) Moon, grandchildren Cory (Lindsey) Newland, Kevin (Tracy) Newland, Katie (Chris) Goodpaster, Kallie Lolkema, Kara (Fred) Koch, and Kalan (Molly) Moon, and eight great-grandchildren. Brother Dale (Jan) Lolkema, Jim (Karen) Lolkema, Melvin (Gale) Lolkema, and sister Julie Lolkema. 

There will be a Celebration of Life for both Joan & Pete Lolkema at the home of Bryan and Kerrie Lolkema, on Saturday, October 4, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm located at 1010 Church St. Kouts, IN, 46347.

Memorial may be given to Highland Christian School.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Pete Lolkema, please visit our floral store.