Arthur Rademaekers was born on April 29, 1934, in Eindhoven, Netherlands. He died on April 21, 2022, at the age of 87 in Amarillo, Texas, where he had recently moved.
Art’s first encounter with America was as a young boy when two American soldiers came to his home after the liberation of Eindhoven during World War II. The soldiers had come to retrieve walkie talkies that Art had brought home as a souvenir after he took a “test drive” in a U.S. Army tank. In the late 1950s, he immigrated to Canada and then to the United States, ultimately winding up in Houston, Texas, where he lived for 37 years.
Always curious and determined, Art’s can-do spirit was evident in all facets of his life but particularly in his career. His answer to any question in a job interview about his skills or experience was that yes, he had done that. Then upon taking the job, he would do whatever was needed to learn it as he went. So successful was this approach that his career that began on an automotive assembly line ended with him serving for many years as Chief Financial Officer for Lamons Metal Gasket Company in Houston, from which he retired in 1996.
Following his retirement, Art moved to a log home on the shores of Lake Murray, South Carolina, where he was active in his church and community work, as well as serving as “Mayor” of Pioneer Shores.
He also took many trips with his family, building wonderful memories for his sons and their families.
Art was truly the embodiment of 2 Timothy 4:7-8. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
Art is preceded in death by his father and mother, Ernest and Paula Sijben Rademaekers and his brother, Ronny Rademaekers and wife Eva. He will be greatly missed by his two sons and their wives, Jeff and Iwana Rademaekers of Amarillo, Texas, and Michael and Amy Rademaekers of Double Oak, Texas; his brother, Louis Rademaekers and wife Marian; his sister, Wilhelmina Maassen and husband Ted; and his grandchildren, Anastasia Brooking and husband Douglas, Amanda Rademaekers, Eli Rademaekers, and Mae Rademaekers.
A private celebration of his life will be held on April 30, 2022, in Amarillo, Texas. To honor Art’s memory, spend time with your loved ones and enjoy a laugh, a walk, a meal, or a hug – then remember Art and smile.
Art was like my “Second Father”.We had many adventures together. Driving with Art was definitely one of them.From walking everyday when I was in SC,taking him to Taco Bell , to just have him track our movements from Michigan to SC. I will truly miss his friendship, his smile,especially his phone calls.RIP my friend.
My buddy Art, you were always the most kindest person to me. I will always cherish all the times I cut your hair and the long talks we had. Well done my good and faithful servant♡ Love always, Shalon
So sorry for this loss. I will always remember Art as a kind happy man.
Always interested in everything. Calling and/or face timing late in our evening.
I will miss those conversations.
Rest peacefully Art You were looking forward to your “after life”. We’ll meet again
So sorry for your loss.
Dear Jeff, Iwana, Anastasia and family,
What a loss Poppie’s passing is! I have such fond memories of him from way back when. He was such a sweet man!
I hope you were all able to have some special time while he lived in Amarillo.
Just as he embodied 2 Timothy, I hope you can embrace 1Thessalonians 4:13 and rather than “grieve as do the rest who have no hope.”, you can celebrate his life well lived and look forward to a sweet reunion one glorious day. Easier said than done, I know…
We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers,
Stephanie and Wes
What a wonderful life lived. Wishing the family peace and love during this time of loss.