It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Luke Michael Oldehoeft, age 31, of Paradise, Texas. Born on June 8, 1994, in Hanover, Kansas, Luke passed away on July 16, 2025, in Paradise following an illness. His bright spirit, warm smile, and deep connection to both his communities will be dearly missed.
Luke was the son of Michael “Mike” Oldehoeft and Gina (Zidek) Oldehoeft. He attended Valley Heights High School, graduating in 2012, before pursuing further studies at Fort Hays State University. His family remembered him as thoughtful, resilient, and grounded values that carried him through life.
Luke’s career in utility systems and construction began with Hall Brothers in Marysville, Kansas. Demonstrating dedication and skill, he later joined JMI in Vermillion, Kansas, before returning to Hall Brothers.
In 2024, his expanding role prompted a move to Paradise, Texas, where he quickly became an invaluable member of the local utility infrastructure team. His colleagues remember his unwavering work ethic and collaborative spirit.
Luke possessed a deep love for the outdoors: fishing, kayaking, and attending local demolition derby races were among his favorite activities. An avid sports fan, he cheered passionately for the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas State University athletics. Described as fun-loving and friendly, Luke also had a playful aversion to snakes—a trait that delighted those around him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Mike, and his grandfathers, Richard Zidek and Earl Oldehoeft. His mother, Gina Seematter (née Oldehoeft), of Blue Rapids, Kansas,Brother, Gunnar Zidek, and nephew, Laith Zidek, of Washington, Kansas, Grandmothers Ruth Oldehoeft of Hanover, Kansas, and Marge (Rick) Zidek Provest of Clyde, Kansas and Beloved girlfriend, Mariah Uden, of Paradise, Texas.
Visitation Friday, July 25, 2025, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Kinsley Mortuary, 1006 Broadway St, Marysville, KS 66508.
Funeral Service Saturday, July 26, 2025,10:00 AM at Memorial Presbyterian Church, 200 N 10th St, Marysville, KS. Following the service, at approximately 11:45 AM–1:15 Pm at Greenwood Cemetery, Blue Rapids, Kansas.
A memorial fund has been established; contributions may be sent to Kinsley Mortuary, P.O. Box 147, Marysville, KS 66508, with the specific fund to be designated in the coming days.
Luke’s life, though tragically short, touched many. His caring nature, enthusiasm for life, and sense of adventure left a mark on friends and family across Kansas and Texas. Whether he was guiding a kayak down a river, cheering in the stands at a Chiefs game, or helping rebuild a utility line, Luke lived fully and trusted deeply in the power of community and kinship.
May his memory inspire us to embrace every day with the kindness, courage, and authenticity that defined his journey.
