Isaiah Gemechu Kooiman's Obituary
Isaiah Gemechu Kooiman, age 22, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 2, 2026 as the result of a car accident. He was born in Durame, Ethiopia on March 7, 2004, and moved to Conklin, Michigan when his parents adopted him at the age of five. Isaiah attended Ravenna Public Schools, where he was a four-sport athlete, participating in football, basketball, wrestling, and track. He graduated with the Class of 2023. Isaiah enjoyed working out, spending time at the gym, and making memories with his friends. A hardworking and determined young man, he had begun learning the trade of stone and cement masonry, taking great pride in developing his skills and building a promising future. Isaiah is survived by his loving parents, Donald and Cheryl Kooiman; siblings, Marie (Mike Miller) Kooiman, Karen (Nate) Schroeder, Samuel Kooiman, Deborah (Gabriel Miller) Kooiman, Naomi (Renzell Naikee) Kooiman, Joshua Kooiman, and Nathan Kooiman; niece, Nyla Grace; grandmas, Marianne Kooiman and Dorothy Jamieson; aunts and uncles, Carol Bailey, David (Donna) Kooiman, Michael (Beth) Jamieson, and Mark (Martena) Jamieson; and several cousins. A CELEBRATION OF HIS LIFE OPEN HOUSE will be held from 3-6 PM Sunday, July 12, 2026 at The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St., Ravenna, MI 49451. You may sign his online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Isaiah?
What’s a lesson you learned from Isaiah?
Share a story where Isaiah's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Isaiah you’ll never forget.
How did Isaiah make you smile?

