Eugene Richard Hoekema

Gene Hoekema entered the glorious presence of his Lord on Thursday, August 21, 2008. He was born July 19, 1934 in Lynden, Washington to Peter and Sadie Hoekema. After high school, he graduated with an educational degree from Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI, and a guidance and counseling masters degree from Michigan State University. He spent two years in the United States Marine Corps. Gene's life was dedicated to teaching in Christian Schools in Oak Lawn, IL, Bellflower, CA, Jenson, MI, and Lynden, WA. A spiritual, personal relationship with God was a very important part of his life. He was a prayer warrior for many. To all of his grandchildren, he gave personalized plaques inscribed with Ephesians 2: 8-9: "For by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not of your own doing. It is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one can boast." He was preceded in death by his parents and baby sister, Suzane. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Perlene; children, Janis (David) Plagerman, Joel (Karin) Hoekema, Jim (Jenn) Hoekema, and Jon (Cindy) Hoekema; 12 grandchildren; sisters, Bertha Meenderinck, and Suzanne (Henry) Holleman; brothers, Joe (Alice) and Charles; and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Gene's life will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 11:00 AM at First Christian Reformed Church, 1010 Front St., Lynden. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gene's name to your charity of choice. You may share your thoughts and memories of Gene with his family at www.molesfuneralhomes.com.

Moles Family Funeral Homes & Crematory-Lynden