Peter Wade Jongkind, 59, of Michigan City, passed away at Franciscan Hospital in Michigan City on Friday, December 4, 2020, following a lengthy illness.
Peter was born in Ontario, Canada on September 5, 1961 to the late Simon Jongkind and Johanna (Jean) Kleinveld Jongkind.
He is survived by his mother, his brother Gary Jongkind of Michigan City and sisters Susan (Chris) Wolfe of Lancaster, Ohio, Darlene (Dan) Perkins of LaPorte, and Debby (Mark) Bower of Muncy, Pennsylvania. Peter had three children, Jennifer (Anthony) Kantowski of LaPorte, Simon (Meghan) Jongkind, of Orlando, Florida and Carrie Jongkind (Paz Garcia) of Michigan City, seven grandchildren, Madison, Alexis, Kamryn, Hailey, Eliza, Micah, Amelia, and a grandson due in January. Also surviving are his best friend Mike Lawton and former wife Connie Jongkind, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Peter enjoyed flying, fishing, boating and target shooting. He had a love for his marine aquariums and exotic fish. He was a very skilled and talented craftsman, owning and operating The Door Shop in LaPorte for over 30 years. Alongside his father, he built wooden doors, cabinets, and furniture by special order. Peter and his dad and brother spent 10 years building a 42 foot custom wooden sailboat, which was sailed as far as the Bahamas and into Canada.
After meeting in 9th grade Biology class and forming a lifelong friendship, Peter and his best friend Mike were involved in many shenanigans together. Their friendship lasted over 45 years.
Peter had an infectious sense of humor and evoked laughter in everyone with whom he had contact. Noone ever left him without a smile. He found joy in simplicity and humor throughout his life. Many family members and friends have shared memories of his hilariously funny spirit. While we tearfully mourn his passing, we know Peter is in Heaven cracking jokes.
Peter saved a few close friends from depression simply by being who he was, giving emotional support and sight to many through his love and compassion. He has donated his corneas so that someone may have the gift of physical sight.
He lovingly called his mom every morning to check on her and cherished her beyond words.
A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Keys to Hope Mission Citizens for Homeless, 1802 Franklin St, Michigan City, IN