Erwin Cuperus

April 5, 1932 - March 11, 2013

He was born in the family home in Lebanon Iowa on April 5, 1932, to Nick and Nancy Cuperus. He attended schools in Orange City, Hull and graduated from Sheldon High School in 1949.

He married Lois Runia on July 16, 1953. They began their lives together in Sibley, Iowa. And lived in the following towns, Hartley IA., Luverne MN., while working in the poultry business. They settled down in Matlock IA. and owned Erv's Poultry. After many years in the chicken business, Erwin switched careers and attended N.C.C at Sheldon. He was hired on at N.C.C after his time of school. They realized the value of his knowledge and hard work. Being tired of the cold winters he and Lois decided to pack up everything and move to Mesa Arizona, that was 1987.

Erwin had a variety of interest throughout his years. Some of what he loved were, singing, barbershop quartets, gospel quartets, Mesa Prime Time Players, Woodworking, being a handyman, and he truly enjoyed watching and supporting all his grandchildren participate in athletic sports. He also served in many other ways by being Mayor of Matlock, National Guard, Elder, Sunday School teacher and Cadet Counselor.

Erwin loved sharing his love of his Heavenly Father through music, and did so by singing in many churches and retirement homes.

Those left to cherish his memory are, his wife of 59 years Lois; his children; Bruce Cuperus of Cordes Lakes, Arizona, Pam and Gerald Grave of George, Iowa, Jodi and Tom Dennis of Queen Creek, AZ, and Phil Cuperus of Mesa, Arizona. His grandchildren are Shawn and Stacy Wussow, Bryan Cuperus, Nathan, Matthew and David Grave, Randi, Sierra and Tommy Dennis. One great -grandchild, Zoe Wussow.

He is also survived by his brother Cliff; sisters, Elsie and Bernie Granstra, Darlene Prins, Marlene and Art Franken, Donna and Gene Reitsma, Judy and Doug Smid; in-laws, Gertrude Hibma, Pete and Bertie Runia, Joan Runia, Kaye and Leroy Hanenburg, Esther DeBoer, Arlan Weikamp, and Alvin and Mary Runia as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.