Julie Ann Jongkind, 73, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021.
She was born Oct. 1, 1947, in La Porte to Richard D. and Betty J. Cook.
Julie was a beautician her whole life. She was a devoted housewife and enjoyed being involved in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. She loved to cook and bake pies and yell at her children to not eat them. Anyone who knew her would tell you how special she was. So kind, loving and so much to give. She touched many lives.
Julie suffered from the autoimmune disease known as Scleroderma for 29 years of her life. She was one of the longest survivors known. It was crippling and disabling. She fought and struggled for many years, although she would never complain.
Julie was one of the original founders and members of the first sorority known of as THE ’66 CHICKS. This honorary sorority honored the women who graduated in 1966 from La Porte High School and is committed to monthly luncheons for a carefree, fun-filled comradery and to lend moral support for one another. Julie made a consistent effort to attend the monthly luncheons with lively enthusiasm and sparkle, and often was the wise one who found herself comforting and encouraging others with challenges in their life, always reminding them of having hope and reminding everyone to be grateful for each day God so generously provides us. There will forever be a hole in the fabric of the group without Julie’s light sweetness and level-headed perspectives.
Julie and her husband spent half a year for many years in The Florida Keys. Her friends there were family to her just as her friends and family here. She loved her “Curves” family as well! Wherever she was, people drew to her.
On Sept. 14, 1974, Julie married Josef Jongkind, who survives.
Julie also leaves behind six children, Josef (Meghan) Jongkind, Jay Jongkind and Jamie Jongkind and three stepchildren she helped to raise and loved, James (Theresa) Jongkind, Andrew Jongkind and Daniel (Lisa) Jongkind. Grandchildren include Ashley, Sabrina, Hannah, Cristian, Adam, Ian, Renee, Elliot, Jordan, Jonah, Quinn, Jace, Kyler, Chloe, Ava, Aria, Jack, and Annika. She also leaves behind her only sister and best friend, Judy (John) Pahs, and many more special friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Scleroderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105, Danvers, Mass. 01923–1389.
Messages of condolence may be posted below.