Kenneth Jay Kuipers

Ken graduated from Ferris State University with a Bachelor’s Degree and obtained his Master’s Degree from Michigan State University. Ken was a professor of business at Calvin College. Ken proudly served West Michigan for 20 years as a Kent County Commissioner.

Ken was a member of the Grand Rapids Symphonic Band, the Scottville Clown Band, and so many other bands and orchestras. He loved volunteering for Hospice where he played his saxophone regularly at the veteran’s facility and long-term care facilities. He was especially happy to be playing for people who found comfort in all the old hymnals that he loved so well. Ken had a love of reading. He enjoyed sitting in his favorite chair with The Grand Rapids Press and loved the Press so much, he decided to deliver it. He appreciated a good old fashioned “dad joke” and loved a trip to a thrift store to find those hidden gems. Above all, Ken loved the Lord and his faith was very important in his life.

Ken is survived by his children Kevin Kuipers (Cindy) of Fishers, IN, Kraig Kuipers of Grand Rapids, MI, and Karin Versluis (Ned) of Middleville, MI, and their mother, Judy Kuipers of Grand Rapids, MI; grandchildren Nathan Kuipers of Indianapolis, IN, Nicholas Kuipers of Indianapolis, IN, Sydney Versluis of Middleville, MI, and Greyson Versluis of Middleville, MI; his brother Keith Kuipers of East Grand Rapids, MI; his sister Kris Ponstine (Jack) of Wyoming, MI; his sister-in-law Susie Kuipers of Keller, TX; his partner, Vicki MacConnell of Rockford, MI; and many nieces, nephews, and family members.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Sylvia Kuipers, his brother Karl Kuipers, his sister-in-law Michele Kuipers, and his nephew David Kuipers.

Funeral services will be held at Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM.