Harold Paul Hoekman

Harold Paul Hoekman, 65, from Austin, Texas, died Thursday, Nov. 6, 2015.

He was born on June 3, 1950 to parents, Anton and Henrietta (Kolthoff) Hoekman in Colton, SD. As a child of six, he contracted polio. As a result of his illness, he spent time away from his family at Kenny Institute in Minneapolis, endured surgeries, and became a survivor. The grit and determination he gained from this experience shaped his life. He graduated from Tri-Valley High School in 1968. After attending Dordt College for two years, he graduated from SDSU with a degree in entomology. He was also a 1982 graduate of the North American Baptist Seminary in counseling. Harold worked for Epic Ministries in Richfield, MN before heading to Texas to study at the University of Texas. For the past 25 years he has resided in Texas enjoying the warmer climate while maintaining a health-conscious lifestyle.

Harold loved to meet and talk with people. He especially enjoyed sharing his knowledge of a number of subjects. He appreciated nature, planting, growing and harvesting. He always walked his own path in life meeting each obstacle with determination and faith.
Left to mourn are one brother, Glen (Sharon), Sioux Falls, SD; three sisters, Annette, Watertown, SD; Elaine (Ray) Harakh, Vero Beach, FL; and Lois (Grant) Aasen, Sioux Falls, SD. Also surviving are six nephews and three nieces, 19 great-nieces and nephews, many cousins, as well as several friends and neighbors in the Austin area.

The words of Isaiah 46:4 are words of comfort as we envision Harold being lifted into the loving arms of his Lord. “I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you.”

A Memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, December 19, 2015 at Faith Community Church, Colton. Burial will follow at the Colton Cemetery.