Leona Schipper

Leona Schipper went to her heavenly home on July 4, 2024, at the age of 87. Leona was born on July 19, 1936, in Coopersville, Michigan to Clifford & Marian (Busman) Veldman.

On October 7, 1960, Leona married Bert Schipper and they shared 53 wonderful years together until his passing in 2014. They were blessed with three children: John, Jim and Barb. Leona kept the books for the family farm and made big noon lunches for the guys working on the farm and there was always room for more at the table. She loved flowers and gardening. She was very patriotic and family oriented. She loved and adored her grandchildren. She attended many sporting and school events to support her children and grandchildren.

Leona had a servant’s heart which included sending many cards. She was an active and well-loved member of Martin Reformed Church where she taught Sunday School and organized the Children’s Choir. At the Church, Leona was the head librarian for over 40 years. She also knitted over 100 prayer shawls and she made dish cloths as well as many baby blankets and burp cloths. Leona was well known for her homemade cinnamon rolls and hamburger buns. 

Leona is survived by her children: John (Laurel) Schipper, Jim (Lori) Schipper and Barb Schipper; her grandchildren: Mike (Kaylin) Timmerman, Derek Timmerman, Scott (Michelle) Timmerman, Sara Schipper, Ben (Carly) Schipper and Emily (Nathan) Straub. She is also survived by eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband Bert; her siblings: Marilyn (Cal) Meindertsma, Jay (Ginny) Veldman, Sharon (Don) Young and her sister-in-law Verdena Schipper.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 7 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Martin Reformed Church; 1073 W Allegan St, Martin, MI 49070. A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the same location. A private committal service will take place prior to the funeral. 

Memorial donations can be made in Leona's name to Martin Reformed Church.

While visiting Leona’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home; 120 S. Woodhams St. Plainwell, MI 49080 (269-685-5881).