Chris Pikaart, 96, ‘an adventurous spirit’
January 9, 2025
Laura Christine Pikaart of the River Club died Dec. 28 at her home surrounded by family. She was 96.
Known as Chris, she was born on September 19, 1928, in Orange, N.J., the daughter of Christian Frederick Bernard Hagemann and Laura Ernshaw (Winston) Hagemann. After graduating from Orange Memorial Hospital as a registered nurse, she married Edward Hendrick Pikaart in 1950. Together, they raised their two children in Chatham and Basking Ridge, N.J. Following her husband’s passing after 51 years of marriage, Mrs. Pikaart relocated to River Club.
She embraced life with an adventurous spirit and boundless energy. Throughout her life she enjoyed traveling the world, piloting her own plane, biking, golfing, sailing, swimming, running, fishing and playing cards. Her dedication to service was evident through her involvement with churches, schools, and the Pawleys Island Lion’s Club.
Mrs. Pikaart cherished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother. She found immense joy in their love and laughter and shared a deep devotion to her family and pets.
She is survived by her son. Edward Pikaart (Margaret Vaughan) of Durham, N.C.; her daughter. Laura Thomas (Kevin) of Pinehurst, N.C.; her grandchildren. Lauren Lis (James), Christian Pikaart (Cory), Mackenzie Pikaart, Elizabeth Pikaart, Peter Thomas, Charles Thomas, Scott Thomas (Amanda) and Kristine Thomas; and her great-grandchildren, Dylan Lis, Sylvia Pikaart, Marinus Pikaart, Colgan Pikaart, Margaret Pikaart, Daphne Pikaart, Decker Thomas and Leo Thomas.
A celebration of her life will be planned in 2025. Memorials may be made to All4Paws Animal Rescue, Brookgreen Gardens, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Smith Medical Clinic, Pierce Pond Watershed Trust, Doctors Without Borders, Lowcountry Food Bank or the charity of your choice.
