Obituary

Remembering Gordon Terpstra

Gordon J. Terpstra, age 93, our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother, and dear friend entered into the glorious presence of his Savior and Lord as his earthly journey ended on Thursday, September 10, 2026. He was born July 14, 1933, to the late John and Frances Terpstra. He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 65 years, Eileen (Engelsma) Terpstra; son-in-law, Thomas Schipper; grandson, Andrew Schipper; stepmother; Bertha Terpstra; and brother in-law, Bud Kloosterhouse. Gordon will be lovingly remembered by his children, Suzanne Looyenga, Luanne Schipper, Charles and Verna Terpstra, Todd and Valerie Terpstra, Jeffrey and Kathy Terpstra; 27 grandchildren; 64 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are sisters, Nancy Kloosterhouse, Mary (Rev. Alvin) Machiela; brother, Larry (Judy) Terpstra along with many much-loved nieces and nephews. Gordon served in the U.S. Army in Korea during the Korean War. He later owned and operated Terpstra Electric before going on to work for Gordon Food Service as an electrician for 25 years. Gordon later worked for Speedwrench for 13 years before retiring. Gordon faithfully served his church as Deacon, Elder and the Christian School boards. Gordon was a godly example of the heavenly Father he served. A memorial service for Gordon will be held at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Hope Protestant Reformed Church, 1580 Ferndale SW, Walker, with Rev. Nathan Decker officiating. After the service there will be a time of visitation with the family and refreshments at Hope Protestant Reformed Christian School. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Hope Protestant Reformed Christian School or Covenant Christian High School. 

Service Information

Visitation and Funeral Details

Memorial Service

Wednesday, September 16 · 1:30pm

Location

Hope Protestant Reformed Church

1580 Ferndale Ave SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49534

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— Skip Hunter

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