Robert Kuiper ’50

Robert J. Kuiper, 97, of Holland, passed away Saturday, March 16, 2024.

Bob was born December 8, 1926, to Raymond J. and Lois (Thoms) Kuiper. He graduated from Holland High School in 1944. On his behalf, Bob’s mother accepted his diploma because Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17, after his father signed his enlistment authorization. During WWII, he served as a radioman in the U.S. Navy on a sub chaser in the Pacific Theater. On June 9, 1948, he married Eleanor Armstrong of Marseilles, Illinois, and graduated from Hope College in 1950. Bob is a man of the Greatest Generation, although he would never say that.

Bob owned and operated several businesses including Dutch Boy Company and Central Park IGA. His interests included raising show horses, boating, golf, and tennis. He had a beautiful singing voice and enjoyed leading the choir in Florida, where Bob and Elle enjoyed 31 winters. He was a member of Third Reformed Church where he had served on the consistory.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 75 years, Elle, three children: Jack Kuiper of Holland, Bill (Lil) Kuiper of Marseilles, IL, and Kathy (Mike) Albers of Collegeville, PA; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, with two more arriving later this year. He was preceded in death by his sister Betty Kole.