Edward J. Schipper, age 81, of Byron Center, went to be with the Lord on June 8, 2024. We know he was greeted by loved ones in heaven and is likely singing Gaither music.

His parents, John and Marie, raised him in Grand Rapids, where they sent him to Christian High School. Ed worked in a bowling alley, on the race team with Johnny Benson, then as a truck driver for LL Jiroch, and as a surveyor for Miedema and Van Kooten. He had a passion for camping, Lake Freighters, travel to the U.P. and taking long drives with his wife Grace to go for dinner in other Michigan locations. Above all, Ed’s life was defined by sharing his joy in Christ and his church family. He used to sing for the special music at area churches.

After 4 years on dialysis and other illnesses, Ed is survived by his wife of 43 years, Grace; sons, Richard Schipper, Mitchell (Beth) Schipper, and their daughter, Kaitlyn (fiancé, Brandon Dykema); step-children: Cindy Bouma and son, James Bouma, Michael (Michele) Bouma and children: Jessica (Dave) Hossink, Audrey Bouma and Joshua Bouma; nephew, Tom Jurries; brothers-in-law, Bob (Helen) Besteman, Peter (Vivi) Besteman; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Bernard and his wife Carol and their children, Debra Jurries and Robert Schipper. Ed and Bernie looked alike and used to laugh when people were confused by this.

The funeral will be on Ed’s birthday, Friday, June 14, 2024 at Rush Creek Bible Church, 2334 76th St. SW, Byron Center, at noon, with a visitation starting at 11:00 a.m, with Pastor Cameron Townley and Pastor Steve Sherman officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Rush Creek Bible Church.