BORN

1950

DIED

2015

FUNERAL HOME

Kuiper Funeral Home

9039 Kleinman Road

Highland, Indiana

Neil Zeilenga Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 2, 2015.

Neil John Zeilenga, age 64, of Highland, IN, entered into the kingdom of his Heavenly Father on April 1, 2015. He is survived by his loving wife Judy, sons: Nick Zeilenga, Neil (Jessica) Zeilenga, Matt (Danielle) Phillips, daughter, Ginger Bello-Luna and one grandchild, Dahlia Phillips. Celebrating his going home are his loving siblings: Judie (Larry) Bolt, Christine (Jack) VanDeel, Eileen (Jim) Decker, twin sister, Marj (Phil) VanEck, Chris (Pauline) Zeilenga, Jim (Bonnie) Zeilenga and an adoring extended family of aunts; uncles; nieces; nephews and friends. Neil was preceded in death by his parents: Christopher and Bernice Zeilenga and former wife, Shirley (Vos) Zeilenga. Neil was a doting husband, father, brother and friend. Neil was known by all as a kind and generous gentleman who brought out the best in all who met him. An avid gardener, Neil was known best for his luscious garden which he tended with the utmost of care. His prized 2014 garden was featured in the Munster Garden Walk and was enjoyed by scores of area residents who marveled at his botanical masterpiece. An artist, designer and craftsman, Neil prided himself on his home improvement projects that never seemed to end. Neil loved the Lord and will for certain be eagerly tending to God's Heavenly Gardens for eternity. Visitation with the family will be held Friday, April 3, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kuiper Funeral Home, Highland, IN. A celebration of Neil's life will be held at 10:00a.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2015 at Kuiper Funeral Home with Pastor Rich Bawinkel officiating. Memorial donations may be made in Neil's honor to Trinity Reformed Church, 8411 Columbia Avenue, Munster, Indiana, 46321.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Neil Zeilenga

What is your first memory of Neil?

Share a favorite memory you have of Neil.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Neil.

Describe a time when Neil made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Neil?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Neil.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Neil.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Neil.

What is something you learned from Neil?

Not sure what to say?

July 20, 2015

I was really sorry to hear about Neil's passing even though we can only imagine the glory he finds himself in today as we read in the scriptures. I wish only the best in comfort for the family through knowing that. I also can only imagine the loss to his sisters, to Eileen and Marj who I fondly specifically have good memories of.
It was and am sure still is a great family. Ken Weidenaar

April 8, 2015

our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time

your lab friends
@ NWO

April 6, 2015

Vicki VanEck Hill

Though I hadn't seen him in adult years, I recall the first viewing---his parents brought the twins to our house, the blanket they were in was unwrapped, and voila! Our first twins sighting. Younger brother was bewildered that they didn't "match", I recall. Marj has been his wife for 44 years, so he has become bewilderblissed. So sad a loss for all the Zs, but death has no sting for believers like Neil on Easter in the arms of the Lord. Our daily prayers are for comfort for all through family, faith, and friends.

April 3, 2015

Sorry to read about Neil. I wish I had been able to meet him. I hope to have an occasion to meet some Zeilenga family members.
Kathy Housman Cross (Daughter of Gertrude Zeilenga Housman)

April 3, 2015

Caryn Zeilenga/Boon

So saddened to hear of the passing of Neil.

April 3, 2015

Dawn Ruiter

So sorry he's gone so young. He had so many plans he was looking forward to doing. I know Judy and Simon will miss him everyday! Thanks be to Jesus for his Easter resurrection who conquered death! Now we will all be reunited together forever in Heaven!

April 2, 2015

Jess Zeilenga

He was and will ALWAYS be the strongest man I've ever met. Luckily for me he was more than just a man, he was a dad! I know he'll always be watching over us in our lives!!!! Love u dad

April 2, 2015

Hannah Smith

He would come over at Christmas sometimes. He had candy that he kept in his hat, and he would give it to us.

April 2, 2015

Victory in Jesus. What a glorious day that will be when we will all see each other again in our perfected body living with our Lord. I am sure that Neil will be missed by all of his loved ones and family but what hope we have in this Easter season. May God wrap his arms around each of you in this time of sadness, and know that we love and care for each of you.
JR and Ruth Vermeer.

April 2, 2015

Greg Keehn

Sorry for your loss!

Posted by Greg Keehn

April 2, 2015

eileen decker

Neil will be missed by his family and friends. He was a person of charity and benevolence - His good works towards others is recognized by the Lord. He was artistic and loved gardening. His handiwork was shown by the gorgeous landscape designs that were captured so beautifully in his yard. His faith was strong and he loved the Lord. His example will be remembered and have lasing impact. I will miss my brother - but will see him again. I will leave you with his parting words - See Ya Ei - and to you Neil I say See Ya Neil.

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results

Make a Donation
in Neil Zeilenga's name

Memorial Events
for Neil Zeilenga

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Kuiper Funeral Home

9039 Kleinman Road, Highland, IN 46322

How to support Neil's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Neil Zeilenga's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more