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Albert Kuipers Obituary
On a moonlit night at the age of 84, June 19, 2013, Al's spirit flew on the wings of a raven to join his Heavenly Father.
Albert Lynn Kuipers was born August 23, 1928, in Rodgers Mesa, CO, to Cornelius Kuipers and Lois Nelson Kuipers. He was raised in Zuni, NM where his father was headmaster and later pastor at the Christian Reformed School and church. Al attended boarding school at Wasatch Academy, Mt Pleasant, UT. After college he served his country in the United States Army.
From elementary school through his professional life, he continued his education. He completed a bachelor degree in education from Calvin College, masters at Columbia University, and PHD from the University of Utah with emphasis on Native American education. Al served under the Presbyterian mission board as teacher and principal at Wasatch Academy. He moved into public education in San Juan County as principal of Bluff and Mexican Hat Elementary Schools and district administration. His focus was on developing a noncompetitive curriculum and educating teachers and parents so that Native American children could succeed.
On July 28, 1961, he married Barbara Huckaba. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family two years ago in Montana. Barbara will miss taking road trips, playing cards and their talks on the deck. Al loved golf, hunting, exploring red rock country and painting whatever his wife Barbara commissioned. In addition, he loved crossword puzzles, great literature, sports, music, games and cards. His greatest joy was attending each and every event in which his grandsons participated.
Al is survived by Barbara Huckaba Kuipers his loving companion, his children Jim Kuipers, Dave Kuipers and Stacy Pierce, also three sisters, Eloise Vanderbilt, Carol DeVries Carlson, Darlyn Pettinga and brother Keith Kuipers. His lucky grandkids include Shay Kuipers, Casey Gerdes, Chase Kuipers, Coleman Gerdes, Brody Kuipers and great granddaughter Reagan Kuipers. The family would like to thank Dr. Gilcrease, Jamie Sendler and the other wonderful caretakers at Huntsman Center, VA hospital and Summit Hospice. The love of family, friends and MOPC church members was a gift providing a memorable and beautiful year as he battled heart problems and pancreatic cancer. The Zuni Christian School, Zuni NM, Mount Olympus Presbyterian Church, and Huntsman Cancer Center were his favorite charities.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, June 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Olympus Presbyterian Church, 3280 E. 3900 S., Salt Lake City, UT.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Albert Kuipers
Michael Saffle
July 19, 2013
I was saddened to read of "Mr. Kuiper's" passing. I always thought of him that way, because I knew him only from 1962-1965 at Wasatch Academy, where he served as principal. I thought he did a very good job but didn't know him well; a friend of mine from those years had more to do with him and has praised him repeatedly to me for his intelligence, fairness, and support. I send best wishes to everyone in his family, including his widow (who may remember me).
Carol Hansen Stratton
July 3, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you. He was the most loving thoughtful man. Would love to hear the Wasatch faculty meeting they are having in Heaven right now! Love, Carol Hansen Stratton
Jerry Lance Johannsen
July 2, 2013
What a combo at Wasatch Academy: Roger Hansen Superintendant and Al Kuipers, Principal, two of the most optimistic souls I have ever met. I marveled at how adept on the basketball court, Al was, at that ancient age of 35! Glad to have experienced the Al and Barbara Kuipers years at WA.
Rick and Sue Kuipers
June 30, 2013
It was so nice to meet my Father's good friend and his wife a few years ago when you visited Grand Rapids. My Dad and Al have a very good friendship which stayed strong, even over the distance of miles. I will treasure even more, the photo of Al and my Dad on their scooters headed for an adventure towards the West. I extend our sympathy and comfort in our Lord and Savior during this time in your life. Blessings, Sue Kuipers(daughter of Dave Bosscher)
Ken Hoffman
June 28, 2013
Al was a very important influence in my life. I met him as a freshman at Wasatch when he was the dorm headmaster. He was a wonderful example of how one could unite a delight in the world of the mind, the body, and the spirit. I hadn't met anyone like that before, and he has lurked in the back of my awareness ever since. Not least, he also taught us how to play pinochle!
Annee Lund
June 27, 2013
Dave, our heart goes to you and your families, your father was an amazing man! Best wishes and best of luck always.
Annee,Byron,Dylan,Breanna Lund
Jerry Rogers
June 26, 2013
Dave & Family,
Sorry for your loss. You and yours are in our thoughts and prayers. Sending extra big hug.
Jerry & Curt
Steve Horner
June 24, 2013
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Mary Ellen Peterson
June 24, 2013
I will miss those sparkly blue eyes.
Rosalie Payne
June 23, 2013
Barbara, Jim, Dave and Stacy. I hope that you will receive peace and comfort at this difficult time. My love and prayers are with you -- Rosalie Payne
Shelly
June 23, 2013
Dearest Stacie, Joe, Casey, and Coleman
I am so very sorry about your loss. I so remember how interested your father/grandfather was in what everyone was doing and their thoughts on everything. The party I attended at their home was fabulous because of his concerted interest in the people around him. He led a remarkable life and the best legacy he has is his family. No matter how old we get, we are never ready to lose a parent.
You are all in my heart, prayers, and thoughts.
Much love
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