Bernard J. Schipper

Bernard J. Schipper, age 83, of Grandville, went to be with the Lord on April 19, 2020. Bernie enjoyed a long career in the grocery and merchandising business, spending many years at both Meijer and Chelsea Milling Company. He loved traveling, leading hymn sings, and spending time with his family. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 64 years, Carol (Potter); children, Robert Schipper, Debra and Thomas Jurries; grandchild, Steven Jurries and his fiancee, Amber Rookus; brother, Ed and Grace Schipper; sisters-in-law, Berdina and Eldon Troyer, Arlene York; nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. A private graveside has been held at Georgetown Township Cemetery. Memorial service will be announced at a later date. The family wishes to thank the staff of Sheldon Meadows and Spectrum Health Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to Bernie. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Mission of Hope (Baptist Haiti Mission).

Leave Your Tribute Message

December 18, 2022

Dear Carol, I was "googling" a few people that I used to fondly remember from my past career. Today I looked to see how Bernie was doing and saw his obituary. I had to write something and wish you the best. Bernie was a breath of fresh air to work with. He was one of my favorite clients when I represented Chelsea Milling Company for CROSSNARK many years ago. I remember us cooking in the kitchen preparing products for many presentations. He was even willing to do the dishes! I also loved how he spoke so wonderfully about his family. He was so proud of you and his children. So glad he had a long wonderful life. He deserved it. I am sure he will keep everyone happy in heaven with his contagious smile. All the best to the whole Schipper family. Virtual Hugs, Sue

- Sue de Boer

December 18, 2022

- Sue de Boer

April 24, 2020

I first really got to know Bernie on a trip to Jamaica with our wives. We had a blast and Bernie was the life of the trip. Bernie's speciality was negotiating and he was in his glory there. His goal was to get the item he or we wanted to purchase at the best price and he was good at. After he negotiated a great price we also learned who Bernie really was. He would then pay the seller more money than he had negotiated for because he figured they had a family to feed and he wan't about taking money away from them. We really enjoyed our time in Jamaica and that friendship spilled over into our relationship and Meijer. I'm sure he will be missed by all that knew him.

- Bob and Jane Jager

April 23, 2020

Carol, I am so sorry to hear about Bernie's passing. I know how hard of a time this is for you, with Jack being called home 2 years ago now. I do however have a smile on my face when I think about Jack welcoming Bernie to heaven and picture them having a fun reunion. I think of both Bernie and you with very fond memories. Please know you will be in my prayers for peace and comfort.Thank the Lord we do not grieve without hope. God Bless you, Bonetta Richards

- Bonetta Richards

April 22, 2020

All of us loved Bernie's visits to Serra Honda in the service department. His infectious laugh and sense of humor surely brightened our day. Prayers for comfort and strength to the entire Schipper Family. He will most certainly be missed, Teresa Bonham & The Entire Service Team at Serra Honda Grandville

- Teresa Bonham

April 22, 2020

Bernie was my boss at meijer for many years when I worked in the Grocery Merchandising dept at Meijer. As I think back over that time we worked together Bernie was always in the middle of the conversations and the practical jokes he used to play on people kept the mood light. I used to tell him that because of his big ears he never missed over hearting others conversations. Every Easter I would buy a Hollow chocolate bunny called Bernie Big Ears and put it on his desk when no one was around. I don't believe he ever figured out who did this. When i see him in Heaven I plan to tell him so we can have a good laugh together.

- Mike Breuker

April 21, 2020

We are sorry to hear of Bernie's death. We loved having him lead our hymn sings back "in the day" at Oliver Ref. Church. He was an awesome man! Our thoughts and prayers are with Carol and the other family members.

- Lou and Linda Fisher

April 21, 2020

I have know Bernie for close to 60 years...He and I loved to swap grocery stories...The family is in my prayers.

- Andy Dykstra

April 21, 2020

I liked and respected Bernie in my years of selling product to Meijer. Always a fair, tough, but reasonable man. We was a rare find in the grocery business.

- Lee VandeBunte

April 21, 2020

Our deepest sympathy to the Schipper family on the loss of Bernie. Bernie had a special skill in mentoring and creating friendships with younger people in the food business. A life well lived.

- Ray & Ruth Peuler

April 20, 2020

We’re sorry to hear about Bernie’s passing from his earthly life. You’re all in prayers.

- Ashmore Laura And John

April 20, 2020

God Bless you Uncle Bernie. I will miss our grocery talks and your humor!!!

- Doug York