Four generations. Beyond expectations.

The long and honorable history of MKD Funeral Directors began in 1937. Today, four generations of respected family tradition continues, with sons Jeffrey Matthysse and John Kuiper III, creating distinctive services at the greatest possible value.

At all eight locations in the Grand Rapids area, you’ll find the compassionate, personalized care that our community has come to expect from these families, including a full array of services – from pre-arranging to traditional and alternative funerals and memorial services, to dedicated aftercare assistance.

Licensed Funeral Directors

John F. Kuiper III

John is a third generation funeral director and co-owner with Jeff Matthysse, who began working in the family business with his father in 1986. He is a graduate of Worsham College of Mortuary Science. He now works with his son, Matthew, who is the fourth generation funeral director. He lives in Grandville with his wife, Cheri, and they enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren.

Jeff Matthysse

Jeff is honored to be a second-generation funeral director and co-owner with John Kuiper III. He graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science in 2000. Jeff is proud to be associated with a family firm that goes beyond expectations for every family they serve.

Mike Matthysse

Cousin to Jeff Matthysse, Mike graduated from both Davenport University and Worsham College of Mortuary Science.  He is privileged and grateful to serve families in planning meaningful memorial tributes.  Mike enjoys spending time up north enjoying various outdoor activities and cherishing time with his family.  He resides in Jenison and is active in both his church and community.

Doug Chapin

Doug graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science and has been serving families since he was licensed in 2002. He is passionate about working with MKD Funeral Home clients and families. He currently lives in Hudsonville with his wife, Kristi, and family, including poison dart frogs, dogs, parrot, cats and a large squirrel community. Formerly a youth pastor at Spring Lake Wesleyan Church, Doug enjoys nature and especially communing with creation. Most of all, he shares spiritual insights and “Chapisms” with his coworkers daily.

Rachael Kluz

Rachael Kluz began in funeral service in Cass City, Michigan in 2000 and has a bachelors degree of Mortuary Science from Wayne State University.  She is honored to serve at MKD Funeral Home since 2004.  

Paul Kooyer

Paul graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science and became a licensed funeral director in 2003.  He joined MKD Funeral Home in 2015.  In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three children.

Matthew Kuiper

Matthew, son of John Kuiper III, is a fourth-generation funeral director. Licensed in 2019, Matthew grew up working in the business with his father and grandfather. He and his wife, Anna, and their daughter live in Jenison and enjoy serving both their community and church.

Lance Zaagman

Lance graduated from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 2006, has been a licensed funeral director since January of 2007, and joined MKD in June of 2022. He lives in Cascade with his wife Julie and two kids, and they enjoy camping, pickleball, and boating.

Mike Larabel

Mike attended Wayne State University of Mortuary Science and became state licensed in 1970. After serving 38 years in the fire service, he joined MKD Funeral Homes in 2012 to continue serving the families in our communities. Mike lives in Byron Center with his wife, Pat, and he enjoys cooking, volunteering, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Ed Heinlein

Ed received his BBA from Saginaw Valley State University, his Mortuary Certificate from Wayne State University and has been a Licensed Director for over 36 years. Ed along with his wife Mary have owned two funeral homes for over 20 years before moving to the Caledonia area to be near their three children and grandchildren. It’s been an honor and privilege to be associated with MKD Funeral Homes who dedicate themselves to providing a high level of personalized care to families in West Michigan.

Mike Veldhouse

Mike has recently joined MKD as a funeral director.

Fred DeGraaf

Fred is a licensed funeral director who has retired from MKD after 35+ years of dedicated service. His career has been a testimony of commitment and compassionate care. Fred is married to Donna, and they have 3 children and is blessed with several grandchildren.

Funeral Preplanning Specialists

Family Aftercare Service Coordinator

Rev. Gene Pearson

Support Staff

Luncheon Coordinators

Cheri Kuiper

Nancy Mersman

Kim Shassberger

Barb Koorndyk