Thomas Andrew Kuipers' Obituary
Thomas “Tom” Kuipers, age 74, passed away at home surrounded by loved ones. He was born November 7, 1951, in Muskegon, Michigan to Ken and Marie (Shopshear) Kuipers. In 1969, he graduated from Orchard View High School and went on to receive his associate degree in criminal justice from Muskegon Community College. He honorably served his country after being drafted during the Vietnam Era, from 1971-1973. Tom was recently honored with the Quilt of Valor for his time in the service.
Tom met Vicki VerHulst in 1968, and they were married on November 26, 1970. Together they spent 58 years making memories.
He was a dedicated employee of Howmet and worked there for 43 years before retiring in 2013. He loved the Detroit Lions and was also a lifelong fan of the University of Michigan Football Team. Tom was an avid car enthusiast too, but most of all, he loved and supported his family in all things.
He is survived by his wife, Vicki; four sons, Ken (Tanya) Kuipers, Greg Kuipers, Andy (Tanya) Kuipers and Ryan Kuipers; seven grandchildren, Sebastian, Kassi, Declan, Murry, Tobin, Matthew and Arlo; three brothers, John (Laura) Kuipers, Keith (Kelli) Kuipers, and Brian Kuipers; and three sisters, Marcia (Larry)Pearce, Nadine (Chris) Johnson, Sharon (David) Strong and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken, his first wife Marie and second, Margaret; two brothers, Dennis Kuipers and Ron Pack; and brother-in-law, Larry Pearce.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation or Harbor Hospice.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 1110 Dykstra Rd., North Muskegon, MI 49445. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Arrangements made through The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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