WA - On May 7, 2025, at the age of 56, Holly Hettinga Kohls began her eternal life in Heaven.

She was born on April 20, 1969 in Wakefield, Michigan, the second of three children born to Jan and Scharme Hettinga. Holly had a vibrant indomitable personality and her life was defined by love, joy, service and deep faith. Growing up in a Pastor's family in three communities of faith (churches) gave her a deep faith and a love for God that defined her.

Holly loved her brothers Nathan, who was two years older, and Jeremy, two years younger. They grew up together in what could be called a "brother sandwich" with Holly in the middle. But she was able to hold her own. She was in constant competition with her siblings. There were times when she actually used her bull whip to show them who was boss!

Throughout her schooling, she was a student who was consistently defined by her teachers as overly relational and usually too talkative in class. After high school she attended community college and received her associates degree. She went on to Multnomah School of the Bible in Portland, Oregon for a year of Bible training.

In 1993 Holly married the love of her life, Mark Kohls on August 7. Their marriage was strong and inspirational to their three children and countless others. McKenna, Jude and Payton grew up in a God centered Christian home. Holly taught them both what the Bible teaches as well as how to live that out and how to worship God in song and in deeds of service.

From earliest childhood Holly loved animals, horses and dogs and anything else that moved on four legs. Her passion was breeding dogs and matching them to the right owners. She placed many dogs in the homes of people who had children with disabilities...especially those who struggled with autism. Many classes of children with disabilities visited her "Crooked Rooster" farm for days of contact with a variety of animals. She loved to place abandoned horses and dogs in homes where they could be cared for. Literally thousands of people passed through her life and were always blessed by the encounter.

Holly and her husband Mark were a ministry couple. They served in music at Northshore Community church for 26 years. Pastor Mark became the pastor of North Creek Church in Mill Creek. They've led that congregation until the time of her death.

Holly loved to sing and blessed many with her melodious voice. She often sang at weddings and funerals as well as with numerous music teams. Her voice was warm and rich with emotion and passion for her Lord and Savior. Those who were impacted by Holly's worship and love for Jesus will always remember her for the sincerity of her relationship with Christ.

Holly loved God and people! That is her legacy and her example.

Holly is survived by her parents, Jan and Scharme Hettinga; her brother Nathan and his wife Amy. Also her brother Jeremy and his wife Christa. Her husband Mark Kohls and children McKenna, Jude and his wife Ditte and Payton Kohls. She is also survived by many nephews, nieces, and grand nephews and nieces as well as her granddaughter Anja.