Obituary of Christiaan Kooring

Christiaan Kooring Christiaan (Chris) Kooring passed away February 24, 2023 while holding the hand of his loving wife, after a short, difficult, but valiant, battle with cancer. Chris was born on September 27, 1940 in Amsterdam, Netherlands to Simon Kooring and Jantje Veersteegh. When he was 17, his parents along with 3 brothers, Arend, Cor, and John as well as his Aunt, Uncle and cousins Lucy, Paula and Willie—immigrated to the United States. When Chris’ parents decided to return to the Netherlands, his dad allowed him to stay in the US if he joined the military. So began his 12 year Navy career, with an additional 13 years in the National Guard—where he retired. Chris then chose a career in law enforcement where he served 28 years with the Utah Highway Patrol retiring as a Sergeant. Chris continued to give back to the community working an additional 10 years at Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). Chris married Inda Dee Collins, and together they shared 3 children: Christiaan Jr (Debbie), David (Debi), and Michelle. He then married Leslie Lewis, they shared one daughter, Katie. Chris later married Paula Martin and they spent the next 40 years building a beautiful life full of adventure and welcoming one daughter, Tess. Chris was so proud of his 5 children and loved spending time with them. He loved them deeply. Chris is survived by his wife, Paula, his five children, and grandchildren - Casey, Sierra, Conrad, Samantha and Miranda. Great grandchildren; Xaedrick , Braden and Ruby, as well as the grandchildren whose chose him; Alex, Ian, Shane and Ariana. He is also survived by his brother John (Sue) Kooring and numerous nieces and nephews who all adored Uncle Chris (Pop). Preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Arend and Cor, and sister-in-law, Birthe. Chris had a way of drawing people to him and making lifelong friends. He was kind, generous and hysterically funny. Chris was loved and admired by all who knew him and will always be missed. The family would like to invite everyone to a celebration of his life on Sunday, March 19, 2023 from 3:00pm - 6:00pm at our home, Summit Vista, in the Olympus Room. Open house, with a program at 3:30pm.