Pauline Kolean

Pauline (Victor) Kolean passed into eternity on February 2, 2025, with loved ones at her side. She was born May 12, 1923, to John and Myrtle (Hoover) Victor in Slaty Fork, W.Va, one of eight siblings. In 1947, she married Egbert (Eggie) Kolean, who passed in 1989; together with a partner they owned and operated Ottawa Glass on River Ave. for many years.
Although Pauline and Eggie had no children of their own, their nephews and nieces always saw her as their unconditionally loving "second mom," and Eggie the always playful uncle. They enjoyed entertaining family and friends at their home. In winter, there were big Sunday breakfasts, and in summer there was always a weekend crowd socializing and playing in their pool.
Pauline and Eggie enjoyed golf, bowling, travel, hunting, and gardening. After Eggie's passing, Pauline enjoyed weekly trips to the casino in Manistee, probably because she always seemed to win big.
Eggie was a veteran of WWII who served on the North African and European fronts. Pauline worked many years at Baker Furniture where, as part of the war effort, she made wings for infantry gliders; later she worked there as an excellent upholsterer. The couple truly were members of "The Greatest Generation."
After the war, Pauline and Eggie, along with her brother John and his wife, and sisters LaVaughn and Mabeline and their husbands, moved near the lake as pioneers on Holland's North Side when it was considered "the boonies."
Pauline helped care for her widowed mother as well as family members in need, and believed in doing things "the right way." Having grown up in the Great Depression and losing her father at a very early age, she became strong-willed and self-reliant. She had a quiet trust in the Lord and loved the old country songs and hymns. Her mind remained sharp and her tongue witty until the end.
The extended family gives special thanks to niece Janie Driscoll and to nephew James Driscoll for their loving care during Pauline's final years. Also, thanks to Hospice of Holland for all they did that allowed her to remain at home until her passing.
Pauline is survived by her sister Mabeline Stahel of Bradenton, Fla., as well as, numerous nieces, nephews, and their children around the U.S., all of whom loved "Aunt Pauline." We miss her, but are happy she is finally loosed from the infirmities of her nearly 102-year-old body and is reunited with so many family and friends on the other side.