Gary Looman ’60

Gary Looman, of Webster Groves, MO, passed away Friday, August 5, 2022 at the age of 84. Loving husband to the late Roberta “Robin” Looman; beloved son of the late Abraham and Jeanette Looman; loving father of Sue Kristin ’89 (Russell ’91) Dittmar, Karen Beth ’91 Looman, and Ann Michelle ’96 (Dave) Hunter; cherished grandfather of Ryan Dittmar, John Dittmar, Joy Hunter and Drew Hunter; and treasured uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Gary was a proud Dutchman, born in Olive Township, Michigan and grew up in a close knit extended family in Zeeland, Michigan. His ties to the Dutch Reformed Church led him first to attend Hope College. He met his wife of 58 years while he played the trombone in the Hope College Symphonette. After graduating from Hope, he attended Western Theological Seminary. Gary was a life-long learner, continuing his Theological and Counseling studies at Princeton Theological Seminary, San Francisco Theological Seminary, earning his Doctor of Ministry at Eastern Seminary. His love of learning carried through to the end where he would often be found surrounded by his favorite books and devotionals.

Gary touched many lives through his more than 40 year career as a minister, first as a Dutch Reformed minister in Metuchen, NJ and Albuquerque, NM. He then transitioned to being a Presbyterian minister answering calls in Albuquerque, NM, West Allis, WI and Belleville, IL. Gary shared his faith with family, friends and congregations through prayer, teaching, preaching, fellowship, and his musical talents. Gary enjoyed his time at home outside in the warmer months in his garden and in the colder months planning and planting his seeds for the next season. Gary and his wife also spent many hours attending the symphony.