Jack Kooistra

Jack Kooistra, 96, of Rockford passed away Monday, November 21, 2016, from complications following a fall. Jack was born March 8, 1920, in Lewistown, MT, the third child of Joseph and Bertha Kooistra. He married Pauline Strang on February 10, 1943, in Woodstock. Jack worked as a farmer in his early years. Later, he went into trucking. Jack first bought his own truck, then worked for various companies before finishing his career with 30 years at Knox Motor Service. Jack was a lifelong member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Jack enjoyed dancing with his wife, woodworking, fishing, and playing cards (especially 500). He was also an avid reader. He remained active into old age. At 80, Jack helped his son move into a two-story home, carrying furniture and driving the truck. Shortly after that, he and his brother-in-law made the long, long trek by themselves to Canada for a fishing trip in Jack’s beloved Monte Carlo.

Survivors include sons, Larry (Sandra) and Hank (Jan); grandson, Jack (Brittany Daniels) Kooistra; granddaughters, Nicole (Michael) King and Rachel Kooistra; great-grandsons, Isaac Kooistra, Benjamin King and Jack King; and brother, Henry (Char DeHaan) Kooistra. Predeceased by wife; brothers, John and Joe; and sister, Nellie.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 1, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park, with a visitation from 10 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Northern Illinois Hospice. The family would like to thank Northern Illinois Hospice and also the staff of Independence Village (especially Lynda), where Jack lived for 15 years.