Michael E. Boonstra

Last Updated on November 1, 2025 by Cass County Communication Network

Michael E. Boonstra passed away unexpectedly October 18, 2025, while on vacation in the Cayman Islands. He was born March 6, 1947 in Lafayette, Indiana to Charles and Esther (Conelley) Boonstra. Michael was raised in Bluffton, IN where he graduated from Bluffton High School in 1965. He went on to DePauw University where he earned a degree in Political Science and then graduated from Indiana University Law School in 1972.

Having dedicated over fifty years to public service, he was actively involved in politics and held various roles throughout his career in addition to his private practice. He was admitted to the Supreme Court Bar, ran for Indiana State Senate, was a Deputy Prosecutor, has served as Chairman of the Cass County Republican Central Committee, the White County Aviation Board, Public Defender and Department of Child Services attorney to name a few. He was also a member of Shriners International. He devoted his life to public service, specifically advocating for justice and human dignity.

There was never a dull moment. Michael will forever be known for his eclectic approach to just about everything from hobbies, art interests, sense of fashion, architecture…. This combined with his big heart, desire to help, creative nature and adventurous spirit simply left no room for dull moments.

For all of these reasons, Michael loved to travel. His love of travel was not just his own though; it became his mission to ensure his children had the opportunity to experience cultures and broaden their horizons as well. He made it a priority to show them the world and actively sought ways to spark their interest in how they could make a positive impact.

His passion for gardening and flowers, especially his favorite – lilies, were the reason for countless trips to D&R and many other greenhouses in the surrounding counties. He propagated and even created new varieties that he named after his children. Auctions were another common place to find Mike, on the lookout for the next big find or something to add to one of his many collections. His fascination with historical data and wealth of knowledge overall made for a lesson in just about any conversation you had with him whether in the garden, at an auction, in the office or riding alongside him in his car.

And oh, the stories he could tell. He was well equipped with a plethora of intriguing life experiences, a great memory and a good sense of humor. Often something would remind him of a story or a joke and after sharing he would be the last one laughing and regularly the loudest. He had a unique laugh that was hard not to laugh along.

With roots steeped in West Lafayette and both parents being alma maters of Purdue University many family memories are centered around the events and family traditions the school offered. Spending afternoons at football games in the fall, evenings of basketball in the winter months and the PMO Christmas show are all things he enjoyed with his family over the span of decades. At this time his presence and availability will be missed the most. Just a phone call away and always ready to listen, give advice or answer questions.

Michael will be deeply missed by his sister, Anne Boonstra; his children Amy & (Terry) Kunnen of Muskegon, MI, Mark (LeAnne Hall) Boonstra of Logansport, IN, Miranda (Tracy) Boucher of Logansport, IN, Andrew (Taylor) Boonstra of Royal Center, IN and Alexander (Kayley) Boonstra of Peru, IN. “Grandpa Mike” had twelve grandchildren: Madelynn, Natalie, Connor, Olivia, Teagan, Bryce, Avery, Paislee, Grayson, Connor, Kaigen & Cooper.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Boonstra, and mother, Esther Conelley Boonstra.

Visitation will be from 4-8 pm on Monday, November 3rd, at Rans Funeral & Crematory, Marocco Chapel, 119 East Market Street, Logansport, IN 46947. Tuesday there will be a private funeral with a private graveside service in West Lafayette following.

Memorial contributions can be made to Shriners Hospital for Children at www.shrinerschildrens.org

Mike’s online guestbook available and condolences can be shared with the Boonstra family at Rans Funeral Homes.