Laura Christine "Chris" (née Hagemann) Pikaart, 96, of River Club, Pawleys Island, SC, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, December 28, 2024, surrounded by family.
Chris was born on September 19, 1928, in Orange, NJ, to Christian Frederick Bernard Hagemann and Laura Ernshaw (née Winston) Hagemann. After graduating from Orange Memorial Hospital as a Registered Nurse, she married the love of her life Edward Hendrick Pikaart in 1950. Together, they raised their two children in Chatham and Basking Ridge, NJ. Following her husband’s passing after 51 years of marriage, Chris relocated to River Club.
Chris 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 Lion’s Club.
Known affectionately as "Mimi" by her grandchildren, Chris 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. Her memory will endure generations.
Chris is survived by her son Edward (Margaret Vaughan) Pikaart of Durham, NC; her daughter Laura (Kevin) Thomas of Pinehurst, NC; eight grandchildren: Lauren (James) Lis, Christian (Cory) Pikaart, Mackenzie Pikaart, Elizabeth Pikaart, Peter Thomas, Charles Thomas, Scott (Amanda) Thomas, and Kristine Thomas; and eight great-grandchildren: Dylan Lis, Sylvia Pikaart, Marinus Pikaart, Colgan Pikaart, Margaret Pikaart, Daphne Pikaart, Decker Thomas, and Leo Thomas. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Edward.
A Memorial Celebration of Life will be planned in 2025. To honor Mimi’s legacy, hug your loved ones and enjoy a piece of dark chocolate daily. For those considering a donation some of her favorite charities include: All4Paws Animal Rescue, Brookgreen Gardens, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Smith Medical Clinic, Pierce Pond Watershed Trust, Doctors Without Borders, Lowcountry Food Bank—or a charity of your choice.

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Myrtle Beach is assisting the family with the arrangements.