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BORN
1947
DIED
2020
James Kooistra Obituary
Aka Jim, Pops, Dad and Grandpa
Age 73 passed away peacefully at home in his sleep Wednesday, 5/20/2020 having completed the full circle of life. He was born in Grand Rapids, MI on 5/20/1947 to his parents Catherine and James Roger Kooistra, SR. He is survived by his wife of 46 years Barbara Scheerer Kooistra, his sister Judy Sepik and her husband Tim Sepik, his son Clifton James Kooistra and his wife Julie Kooistra, his son James Benjamin Kooistra, three daughters Stacy Kooistra, Karin Kooistra and Jennifer Kooistra-Florez and her husband Carlos Florez, as well as four grandchildren Aleia Metzler, Krystle Gonyo and her husband Eric Gonyo, Madison Kooistra, and Kelly Kooistra. Jim was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. He was a lover of sports and was the first to announce his .650 batting average that he held through the age of 65. He was well known for turning a triple into a single; calling for a runner upon contact! He was extremely knowledgeable and cherished history of any kind and enjoyed sharing his stories with family and friends. An avid Jeopardy watcher, Jim would delight in sharing any newfound information he didn't already know. Services will be scheduled at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona when it is safe for extended family and friends to gather together to celebrate his life.
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Memories and Condolences
for James Kooistra
Judy Sepik
May 16, 2022
As May 20th approaches, I am missing my brother so very much. I still have a voicemail from him on my phone that I listen to occasionally to hear his voice.
I miss you sooo much big brother and I hope you are enjoying your Tombstone, AZ resting place. It was good to stop by in March and spend a little time with you.
Reed Smith
May 30, 2020
It was always a pleasure to see Jim and Barb and their family. Jim always had a smile on his face and a positive outlook on life. I admired his knowledge of western history and learned so much about our own pioneering family from him. He will surely be missed by all.
Judy Sepik
May 29, 2020
My big brother will be missed by so many. I havent known life without him & I'm so sad I wont get a voicemail saying its your brother call me saving my last VM from him.
He taught me so many things, provided advice & support & was always just there for me
He was the most amazing brother, son, husband, father, grandfather & friend.
Miss you so much!
Mike French
May 25, 2020
What a great mentor, coach and font of knowledge. Although I miss you already, I cherish memories of our joyful and exciting explorations as I celebrate you. As you would say, "Time for a Road Trip!"
My condolences and prayers for all family and friends.
Nancy Schmidt
May 25, 2020
I knew Jim when we both worked at the ADE and he and I got along very well. He would regale me with softball stories, particularly in regards to his granddaughter Kelly. He and I were both foodies, and he enjoyed introducing me to some of his favorite places to lunch, which I greatly appreciated. I am so sorry that his loved ones are now without his big personality, but I am sure that they will find comfort in the wonderful memories that they will cherish of him. God bless you and keep you all
Janet Silao
May 25, 2020
My deepest condolences to the whole family.
Jim was my work boss and was also a mentor and a friend. I have so many memories to cherish about him. I will miss him.
Bob Lee
May 25, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time. I had the opportunity to work with Jim at the AZ Dept. of Education. He was well liked and had that magic personality that made you smile. He was most proud of his family as I enjoyed listening to his stories. Jim will be missed by so many.
Susie Gonzalez
May 23, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. Deepest condolences and lots of love and prayers sent to you all..
Mike and Gloria Slayton
May 23, 2020
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Jeanne Wegener
May 23, 2020
Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Katrice, Jeremy, Kennedy & Aubrey
May 23, 2020
Our love and prayers to all of you! So many fond memories of Jim throughout my whole life! He is with Courtney now!
Amaris & Henry
May 23, 2020
All our love to your family as you journey through this change. He is with Courtney now!
Twyla H. Preising
May 23, 2020
So sorry for this loss. You have some beautiful memories to cherish.
julie kooistra
May 22, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful Man. We will love you and miss you always.
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