Daniel David Hoeksema

Daniel David Hoeksema, a remarkable and gregarious man who adored his family and made friends wherever he went, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on August 8, 2025, in Germantown, Tennessee. Born on January 26, 1950, in Oak Park, Illinois, he was the son of Henry and Mildred Hoeksema. When his family moved from Berwyn to La Grange Highlands he met and later married Linda (Stalman)—the love of his life.

A proud Marine Corps sergeant who was quick to spring into action, he administered the Heimlich maneuver in multiple emergencies and saved two lives. Fiercely competitive, Dan was not afraid to sacrifice the intact status of a rib, or two, in the quest for a sports championship or the longest hang time after vaulting off a snow tube jump while he videotaped it. A history buff with a fantastic memory, he enjoyed discussing historical events and testing his knowledge in Trivial Pursuit games.

As a master electrician he diligently ran the family business, Hoeksema Electric, originally in Chicago and then started it anew in Germantown, Tennessee. He took pride in his craft, paying meticulous attention to safety and going the extra mile to assist his customers.

Dan, ever the optimistic Chicago Bears fan, enjoyed sports and was enthusiastic about traveling and savoring culinary delights; he often revisited favorite restaurants weekly to catch up with the staff. In retirement, he enjoyed trips with Linda, his lovely wife of 55 years, where they explored new locations as well as visited friends and loved ones scattered across the country. He loved to spend time with his five children, their spouses, and his fourteen grandchildren. Always dependable, if Dan said he would be at church or a grandchild’s game, school event or birthday party—he was there.

In addition to his dedication to family, Dan loved the Lord and volunteered at various churches throughout his life before health struggles prohibited him. Whether he was leading Stockade (Christian Service Brigade program), prayer teams for numerous pastors, financially supporting missionaries or clocking time for pine wood derbies, Dan believed in serving the Lord and others. As he acquired new friends wherever he went, especially during his frequent trips to the grocery store, most conversations included his admiration for the Lord and what Jesus had done in his life.

Although there were many adventures Dan had hoped to participate in before he lost his battle with Leukemia, he knew this world was not his forever home. His engaging spirit will be missed here on earth every day, but his family and friends look forward to being reunited with him for eternity in heaven. His legacy of generosity and faithfulness will live on in his family. He leaves behind his wife Linda, his son Scott (and Jeanette), his daughter Jenni Proctor (and Ray), son Marc (and Amanda), daughter Lisa Kopp (and Jeff), and daughter Beth Tierce (and Brandon). His memory will forever be cherished by his grandchildren Micah (and Heidi), Kayleigh (and Braden), Leah, Don, Sullivan, Redley, Christian, Avery, Cooper, Ciara, Skylar, Cannon, Karly, and Emmy.

A visitation for Dan will be held Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home, 3700 N. Germantown Pkwy., Bartlett, TN 38133, followed by a memorial service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.