Dale J. Kuipers

Dale J. Kuipers, age 91, of Wyoming, MI, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025. He was born on July 1, 1934, graduated from South High School in 1953, and proudly served two years of active duty in the U.S. Army, followed by four years in the Army Reserves in Grand Rapids. Dale worked at Keeler Brass while in high school, later at Boston Pure Milk Dairy for four years after his military service and then dedicated nearly 40 years to Pridgeon & Clay. He was a longtime member of Plymouth United Church of Christ.

Dale lived a life of service and connection. For over 30 years, he volunteered at God’s Kitchen, delivered meals through Meals on Wheels, and served as a reading mentor at a local elementary school. He was active in the Big Brothers program since 1968 and will be deeply missed by his “little brothers” Tom (Tamara) Barney and David (Jennifer) Dakin, and their children who knew and loved him as Grandpa Dale.

Friendship was central to Dale’s life. He enjoyed traveling with friends, cherished many lifelong friendships, and remained close with his high school classmates and former co-workers from Pridgeon & Clay throughout the years. 

He is survived by his grandchildren: Sarah (Shane) Sipple, Alice Ada, Erin Barney, James Barney, Annalyn Dakin, Jordyn Dakin, and Harper Dakin; and his great-grandson, Apollo Sipple. He is also survived by his niece, Pam (John) Strickland; great-nephew, Gerben Andrew (Shirley) Kuipers; great-nieces, Marjorie Ann Kuipers, and Mary Lou Kuipers.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, September 17, from 6-8 pm and Thursday, September 18, from 10-11 am at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the funeral home with David Dakin officiating. Burial will take place at 2 pm at Winchester Cemetery in Byron Center. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.