Obituary

Remembering Jeffrey Scott Kunnen

Jeffrey Scott Kunnen, age 62, of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 29, 2026, and is now home with his Heavenly Father. Jeff was born in Grand Rapids, MI, to Ron and Anne Kunnen. 

Following in his father's footsteps, he began his career at Family Fare before going on to establish a career in the grocery business. He was a loyal and kindhearted man whose genuine desire to serve others was reflected in the way he lived his life and cared for those around him. A graduate of South Christian High School, he carried with him the values of hard work, dedication, and commitment. Outside of work, he found enjoyment in playing tennis and following his favorite sports (especially Michigan football). Above all, his family was the joy of his life. Jeff will be forever remembered for his kind spirit, unwavering loyalty, and the many ways he touched the lives of others.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ron Kunnen; brother-in-law, Doug Bakker.  

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 38 years, Jean Kunnen (Dekoekkoek); children, Nate and Gracey Kunnen, Nicole and Gareth Flynn; mother, Anne Kunnen; siblings, Sandy and Roger Bronsink, Dan and Kathy Kunnen, Lynn Bakker; father-in-law and mother-in-law, George and Joanne DeKoekkoek; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Gary and Joyce DeKoekkoek, Gord and Barb DeKoekkoek, Janet and Rusty Engbers, Julie and Eric Scott, Joyce and Randy Hoppe; uncle and aunt, Bob and Jackie Kunnen; many loving nieces and nephews; countless dear friends and neighbors. 

Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday from 4-8 pm for a visitation at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood. A memorial service will also be held at 2 pm Wednesday, November 4, 2026,  at MKD Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood. A continued time of fellowship and refreshment will be held immediately following the service on Wednesday. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to West Michigan Community Tennis, Jeff and Jean’s home club, and Nate’s workplace. This nonprofit organization provides the gift of tennis and community to the underserved, including children and those with disabilities: https://wmctennis.com. 

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I was deeply saddened to hear of Jeff's passing. I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Jeff through Mission Foods for the past 4–5 years, and he was so much more than just a distributor within my district. Jeff was a genuinely kind and caring man with a big heart. Whether it was talking business, his love for sports, or his passion for tennis, Jeff was always a pleasure to talk with. He was one of those people who made a working relationship feel more like a friendship. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Jeff will certainly be missed by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in peace, Jeff.

— Elijah Larson

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