Donald J. Kooiman, age 76, of Brandon, South Dakota, died Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at his home in Brandon surrounded by his family. Funeral services were 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 20, at First Christian Reformed Church in Sioux Falls. A private family burial was held in the South Dakota State Veteran’s Cemetery in Sioux Falls.

Donald Jay Kooiman, Chandler, Minn., was born to Bernard and Henrietta Kooiman on October 27, 1948. He was “number 3 of the Kooiman boys.” Don attended Chandler Christian grade school and graduated from Southwest Christian High School in Edgerton, Minn. In December 1966 he joined the United States Navy. He honorably served his country for 6 years while getting his education, including time spent on a nuclear-powered submarine. This prepared him for a 40-year career at Sanford Medical Center as the director of facilities. What he cherished most was the many relationships he built over his career.

In August 1968 he married his high school sweetheart, Carla Schaap. Don and Carla were blessed with two children. Tom (Traci) of Cold Spring, Minn., and Tricia (Andy) Leafblad of Maple Grove, Minn. His grandchildren were one of the joys of his life…Jessica (Brett) Stern, Jocelyn Kooiman (Alex Stevens-fiancé), Jacob Kooiman, Benjamin Leafblad, Andrew Leafblad, Joseph Leafblad and a greatgranddaughter, Stevie Marie Stern.

Don experienced God’s presence most in nature, especially spending time at West Whitlock Bay with family and friends. As an avid outdoorsman he enjoyed fishing and hunting and was most proud that he was able to share and instill this passion with his grandkids. However, anyone was welcome to join him in the boat or in the field! Don was also the founder of the Sanford Walleye Classic Annual fishing tournament where all proceeds went to Children’s Miracle Network.

Don was a faithful man of God. He will be remembered for his kind and gentle servant heart. He lived with a quiet confidence knowing his eternal reward is to be in the presence of Jesus. He was a lifelong member of the First Christian Reformed Church. Throughout his life he served his church community as an elder and a deacon. He studied the Bible faithfully in Bible Study Fellowship for many years both as a student and then as a children’s and discussion leader. As a charter member of Sioux Falls Christian High School he served on the board as well as dedicated many hours to building the original school.

In addition to Carla, his children and grandchildren, Don is survived by five brothers: Dennis and Kathy, Douglas and Diane, and Dean and Betty, all of Sioux Falls. Dave and Vel of Edgerton, Del and Jenny of Pipestone, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Henrietta Kooiman.