Joan E. Kuipers

 Livestream link for memorial service  here  

Joan Elizabeth Kuipers, age 67, of Grand Rapids, passed away on March 24, 2025, with Mark, her husband of 43 years, by her side.  Joan was born on June 11, 1957, in St. Albans, Vermont to Gary and Margaret (Smith) Skidmore.  She graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1975 and from Grand Valley State University in 1979.  Joan and Mark were married on August 22, 1981. They have one son, Jacob who is married to Katie. Together Jake and Katie have a son for whom Joan prayed and courageously fought to meet. Beautiful Cohen J was born just one day prior to her death.

For more than 30 years Joan served as a special educator, retiring in 2018 from Rockford Public Schools. Across her career Joan taught and mentored countless students with a rare combination, high expectations, candor, and humor. Through her church community, Joan accompanied many youth groups on mission trips and sailing trips. She volunteered with organizations in Alaska, Toronto, Costa Rica, and Austria.

Joan lived a life of service and gave lavishly of her time and resources. She consistently demonstrated a deep love for others, particularly those individuals who were hurting, vulnerable, or devalued. Joan’s courage to step into rather than away from difficult circumstances was a hallmark of her movement. She was a fierce advocate, faithful friend, and loved well.  Joan was guided by her deep faith in Jesus Christ and was, to so many, a warm reflection of God’s love, comfort and presence. Joan will be remembered for her beautiful smile, her “Joanie hugs” and an infectious laugh that could fill a room.

In addition to her love of people, Joan loved the beauty and wonder of creation. She was a lifelong student of nature, never wanting to miss an opportunity to learn from a new documentary series or observe a powerful storm from her “thunder chair.”

Joan is survived by Mark, Jacob and Katie, and grandson Cohen, as well as by her father Gary, sister Linda (Bob) Van Dis, loved niece and nephews Matthew Van Dis, Erik (Ladan) Van Dis and baby Roya, niece Kerry (Ryan) Ellis and their daughter Vivian, many treasured members of the Kuipers family. She was preceded in death by her mother Margaret.

Visitation will take place on Monday, March 31st from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at  Magnify Church, Northview Campus  where a memorial service will be held Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 6:30 pm

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to .

 Light of Love  , Seattle or the  National Parks Foundation  .

Please visit K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs where you can leave an online memory of Joan or to sign the guest book.