Phyllis M. (Houtman) Kuiper, age 81, of Grand Rapids, MI, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 8, 2024. We celebrate this day that our loving mother, cherished grandmother, thoughtful sister, and supportive friend is now in the presence of her Lord, celebrating a life of faithfulness and impact. Phyllis embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit, and an unending generosity that could always be seen in her care for her family and friends.

Those who were blessed to be touched by her understand that her existence and the imprint she left on all our hearts is exceeded only by the example she was and will be carried on as we follow in her footsteps.  

Phyllis enjoyed people more than anything. She was well known for her positive attitude and infectious smile that would melt away all worries.

If you knew her, you knew her passion to be behind the wheel. It was a nice day if you heard from “Early Bird” on the CB radio. Driving the church bus Sunday mornings and heading east for youth group trips to Cedar Point. The years of service with Greyhound as a “Tour Guide” (aka bus driver) brought her much joy informing passengers of the landmarks throughout the country. This was also her mission field as she regularly shared Jesus’ love. Phyllis was known to, on a whim, jump in the car and drive around to family and friends simply to share her unwavering commitment of spreading love and kindness. She enjoyed driveway chats, long drives to the lakeshore, as well as bringing many family and friends on a day trip to enjoy all that God’s creation had to offer that day.

Phyllis’ daily joy was hearing from her children, grandchildren and siblings about what happened that day, what was going on tomorrow and what the future would bring.  She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Kenny Kuiper, Kelly (Brad) Felker, Kim (Scott) Parsons, Katie (Brian) Vanden Berg, Kirk (Lori) Kuiper, Keith (Heather) Kuiper, Karla (Jay) Jackson; 19 grandchildren; many great grandchildren; brother, Steve (Karen) Houtman; sisters, Shirley Snoap, Yvonne (Mike) White, Charlotte Kossen; sister-in-law, Pati Miller; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 33 years, Ken Kuiper; and her parents, Lambert and Margaret Houtman.   

Although Phyllis’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May her memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth her legacy of love and compassion in all that we do. Phyllis, your light will forever shine brightly in our hearts.

The family will greet visitors on Monday, August 12, from 4 - 7 pm at Stroo Funeral Home and on Tuesday, August 13, from 10 - 10:45 am prior to the funeral service beginning at 11 am at Ada Bible Church, Kentwood Campus,  2045  68th St. SE. Rev. Ben Vaught will officiate. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery.