Ken Van Kooten, 89, of Oskaloosa and formerly Rose Hill, passed away Thursday, January 24, 2025, at Northern Mahaska Nursing and Rehab Center.
Kenneth Eugene Van Kooten, son of Pete and Jennie (Swank) Van Kooten, was born July 4, 1935, at his parents’ rural home south of Oskaloosa. He graduated from Oskaloosa Christian School in 1949. He entered the United States Air Force on February 7, 1955, and was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota, where he served with the 28th Field Maintenance Squadron. Ken married Marlene Lamb of What Cheer on November 8, 1958, in Rapid City, South Dakota, shortly after his discharge on December 8, 1958. Ken began his career in construction with Bloom Builders in Oskaloosa. In 1969, he moved to Iowa Falls and started the K-Van Construction Company. He moved to Des Moines in 1982 and opened the Pro-Line Building Company. In 2005, he and Marlene returned to the Oskaloosa area, settling in rural Rose Hill. Ken acquired a love of flying while in the military, and in the 1970s, he earned his pilot’s license and enjoyed many hours flying his Cessna 182 Skylane Airplane.
Kenneth’s family includes his wife, Marlene; his sons, Kevin Van Kooten of Rose Hill and Bryan Van Kooten of Pleasant Hill; three grandchildren, Abbey Van Kooten, Grant Van Kooten, and Lilly McKay; three great-grandchildren: Ayla Gannon, Ava Van Kooten, and Cael Van Kooten; a brother, Elvin (Linda) Van Kooten of Iowa Falls and three sisters: Marie DeBoef of Oskaloosa, Hermina (Bill) Stursma of Pella, and Darlene (Elmer) Kloosterman.
In addition to his parents, Kenneth was preceded in death by two brothers, Hank and Cornie.
As was his wish, Ken’s body has been cremated. A memorial graveside service will be held at Wymore Cemetery later. Langkamp Funeral Chapel & Crematory has been entrusted with his arrangements. Memorial contributions can be made to the Rose Hill Community Church.
