Rick Kolander

July 24, 1954 - May 1, 2020

Rick Kolander, 65, of Sour Lake, TX died Friday, May 1, 2020, at Harbor Hospice, Beaumont, TX. He was born on July 24, 1954, to Yvonne Marie Prather Kolander and James Edward Kolander, in Beaumont, TX.

For those who knew Rick Kolander, no explanation is necessary; for those who didn’t know him, no explanation is possible! A lifelong resident of SETX, Rick spent his youth as an active member of FFA, and worked in the local farming community. As a young adult, Rick attended Lamar University, where he pursued a degree in architectural design- but short of finishing fell in love with the car business. Rick served the vehicular needs of SETX and the surrounding areas from 1974-2020. During his lifetime, be it the lake, the river, or his true love the deep blue sea; Rick never missed an opportunity to be on the water. His open water passion both began and will conclude with the majestic blue waters of the Bahamas. Rick loved his family and friends, and had a extraordinary zest for life. His smile, witty humor, and overall presence in a room could never be forgotten. He died as he lived, surrounded by those he loved most.

Survivors include his daughters, Christie Sonnier and her husband, Scott and Lori Slocum and her husband, Reggie; son, Cody Kolander and his wife, JoLee; grandchildren, Easton Ozment, Hillary Sonnier, Brock Slocum, Bristol Slocum, and Clara James Kolander; sisters, Vickie Pelt and her husband, Ken and Reba Schroeder; brothers, Ronny Kolander and his wife, Carolyn and Billy Kolander and his wife, Emy; numerous nieces, nephew, and extended family; and mother of his children, Cindy Allen and her husband, David.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

A gathering of Mr. Kolander’s family and friends will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday, May 4, 2020, at Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont. Please observe social distancing guidelines. Please join the family REMOTELY for his funeral service through Facebook Live via Mr. Kolander’s Facebook page at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 5, 2020. A family committal will be held at Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Rick Kolander Memorial Scholarship Fund at any Mobil Oil Federal Credit Union.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Harbor Hospice for the care of their father.

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Broussard's Crematorium

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Gathering of Family and Friends

Gathering of Family and Friends
  • 2000 mcfaddin street beaumont tx 77701
  • 05/04/2020
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Comments
scott monroe

Rick was a dear friend to many many and he was the life of every party. One of his favorite sayings was, "Im not here for a long time, Im here for a good time" He loved every sun set...It was an end to a great day. We love you Rick. Sun sets forever my dear friend.

Jena Haynes

We just heard about the passing of your father Rick. Just wanted to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family.. So sorry for loss.

Teresa Attaway Dumphy

Ricky Edward! I can hear Yvonne yelling his name when he stole my homework and I had to chase him through their house to retrieve it. I am sitting on my front porch now looking at the spot in my yard where he and I had our picture taken in our graduation gowns. I can see his smiling face and it seems like yesterday, although it was 48 years ago. I have been reminiscing with other 1972 classmates about our memories of him. Ricky, me, Larry Fox and Billy Bob Copeland were inseparable during much of our high school years. We had so many funny escapades that still bring a smile to my face, some I could tell about and some not. Peace to the Kolander family who has lost so many these last few years. Ricky was my neighbor and friend and will be remembered fondly by so many. Fly high, Ricky. Your time on earth may be over, but you can party hardy in heaven. We will never forget you.

Lucky Ott sr

God bless this family . Rick will be missed by so many. I loved this guy

Billy Berryman

My thoughts and prayers with the family. Rest In Peace my long time friend. Until we meet again God Bless You

Kaye Thompson

Prayers and peace for the family. Rick will be missed by my family.

Debra Thibodeaux

I will always remember Rickie for his sense of humor, his wide smile and dancing eyes. I love you cousin.

Tommy Fielder

Sure loved this guy. I miss him already. Fly high my friend!

Corey Rosa

Wish i could hear tou tell the Poncho Villa story just 1 more time at the deer lease around a fire, my friend. You will be missed! Thanks for the memories Mr Rick.

Kathleen Leger Greer

I’ve known the Kolander family since I was 6 years old. So I’ve known Rick most of my life. He and I actually talked a couple of times on the phone this past year. It had been a while and we did some catching up. So glad we did. I know his children, grandchildren, and siblings will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Lisa Broussard

So sorry for your loss. This was so beautifully written. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Vanette Young

Sending my love and condolences to the Kolander family. Rick was one of kind! He loved to make people laugh and always had a story to tell. RIP Rick!!❤

Vanette Young

Sending my love and condolences to the Kolander family. Rick was one of kind! He loved to make people laugh and always had a story to tell. RIP Rick!!❤

Vanette Young

Sending my love and condolences to the Kolander family. Rick was one of kind! He loved to make people laugh and always had a story to tell. RIP Rick!!❤

Jackie Griffin

He will be missed...Prayers for his family.

Sue Hamilton

Dear Ricky, I wish you peace, happiness and deep blue water in the next life. Susie

Becky & Rodney Ames

Great guy and we enjoyed many boat rides together, he will be missed. Thoughts, prayers and condolences with family.

Evelyn Fontenot

Rick, you are going to be so missed by so many. Your cheerful disposition, sense of humor, and your generosity are just a few of the reasons why. Being the rascal that you were made you even more lovable. I will always cherish our friendship and the memories. Rest in peace now, sweet man.

Bonnie Johnson

I remember Rick he was a few years younger but that made no difference.....my prayers to the family and his kids....I am Bonnie Atkins

Kathy James McDuffie

How do I even begin to describe my friend Rick Kolander? He was full of life, stories, wit, and he loved the ladies. He always had a compliment for you and made you feel good about yourself. Like aren’t you looking lovely tonight. and then a kiss on the hand. LOL He loved my spaghetti and said he was not a fan of it unless it was mine. Him and my ex husband (Calvin Keating) always tried to out wit one another. He loved cars as much as Calvin did and they both loved the challenge of selling them. Rick was an awesome friend to my son Joe too! They loved to pick at one another. Rick and Cindy and family were our back pasture neighbors for many years. Rick will be missed . Calvin, his mom and Dad were there to greet him in heaven and he is no longer in pain. Rest In Peace my friend. Kathy

Amanda Leger Griffin

Mr.. Rick was one of a kind! I’m so glad I had the pleasure to know him. God be with The family during this time. We love you ! Rob & Amanda Griffin

Donna Fertitta

We are so sorry for your loss.Prayers to the family and he will be gone but not forgotten. Donna Fertitta, Denise Foley, Ray Foley and Linda Robbins

Stephan Malick

Rick loved his family and friends and he was most proud of his children and grandkids. Always very kind and generous in many ways. We always made to feel a part of your family — we LOVE and miss Aunt Yvonne and Uncle James too! Always a good and crazy conversation to be had with Rick and he was always willing to share his experiences and life lessons. Rest in peace!

Fred & Barbara Blanchette

RIP Rick, we will miss you my friend.

Kim Coutee

Rick you left an incredible mark in life. Your enduring memories will never let us forget you. Thank you for the friendship...Deep Blue Waters our friend. Kim and Jeff

Darla Thibodeaux

I have so many fond memories of visiting my Kolander relatives throughout the years. When Ricky entered the room, you were always greeted with a gentle hug and big smile. He was a handsome guy with a quick wit and always a good story to tell. Condolences to all the Kolander's; Your family has endured such great loss in these recent years. God bless.

Bille Sue Goodeaux Family

Peace and love to all of the Kolander Family!

Debra Nowlin Andrus

I have many fond memories of Rick. He could always make me laugh and was always "up to something". He will be missed - Gone but never forgotten... See you on the other side. Love and sympathy to his family.