Eugene 'Gene' Zylstra

85 year old, Eugene ‘Gene’ Zylstra, of DeMotte, passed away on October 29, 2025, in VNA Hospice of Valparaiso.

On August 16, 1940, Gene was born to Clarence and Gertrude (Kingma) Zylstra, in Rensselaer, Indiana. He married the love of his life, Katherine Hefner, on July 14, 1984, in DeMotte, Indiana. Gene worked as a mechanic at Barile Ford in Valparaiso, and even though he retired, he drove a grain truck for multiple farmers. He loved to go fishing, anywhere and everywhere he could. Gene also enjoyed camping, get togethers with friends and family, and eating out whenever he could.

Gene is survived by his wife: Kathy, children: Marcie Klemp, Ryon (Cindy) Klemp, Steve (Chris) Zylstra, Kent (Kim) Klemp, Scott Zylstra, Jackie (Mike) Davich, 18 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and siblings: Jerry (Carol) Zylstra, Joyce Fase, and Jane Hoffman.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, daughters: Sharon Zylstra, Terrie Klemp, son: Stan Zylstra, and grandsons: Clayton Myers and Brandon Klemp.

Per Gene’s wishes, private family services will take place. Interment will be held at Holland Cemetery.