Bernard Jay Schipper

He was born on June 21, 1951 to Almon and Laura Schipper in Zeeland, Michigan. He graduated from Zeeland High School and entered into the workforce. He worked for Bil Mar Foods for 34 years, was self-employed for 10 years, and worked part-time for Dean Transportation, Berlin Raceway, KP Trees, and Auto Body XPerts.

He entered into the Marine Corps in 1971 and served until 1977. In 1973, he married the love of his life, Nina Headley. Together they had three daughters – Tammie (Robert) TenBroeke, Shelly (Jason) Hendricks, and Kristi (Nick) Bonstell. Their daughters blessed them with seven grandchildren – Caleb (Cortlyn) TenBroeke, Madison (Ross) Bolman, Keaton Hendricks, Jenna Hendricks, Colton Bonstell, Bailey Bonstell, and Angela Bonstell.

Bernie enjoyed hunting, playing many sports including softball, bowling, and snowmobiling. He enjoyed spending time with his wife of 51 years and entertaining people in their home. Camping and vacationing were also activities that he loved, and he had the pleasure of going on vacation with his kids and grandkids. His greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his kids and grandkids, and watching them grow with all of the sports they played.

Bernie was a longtime member of Ottawa Reformed Church, where he loved the Lord. He was involved in many activities and held various roles within the church over the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents Almon and Laura Schipper and father-and-mother-in-law William and Kathryn Headley. He was also preceded by brother-in-law Roger Headley Sr. and sister-in-law Sharon Headley.

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years Nina as well as his children, grandchildren, and many friends. He is also survived by siblings Robert Schipper, Sandy (Bill) Rassamusen, Bev (Eric) Olson, and Nancy (Dave) Doorlag. In addition, he is survived by in-laws Kathryn Headley, Sandy Headley, Elmer Headley, Harold (Barb) Headley, as well as Peter (Cathy) Headley. Many nieces and nephews also survive him.

Bernie’s family would like to extend a special thanks to Corewell Hospice for the compassionate care and support that was provided.

A visitation for Bernie will take place on Sunday, October 13 from 2 – 5 PM at Lakeshore Memorial Services – 11939 James St. Holland, 49424. A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 14 at Ottawa Reformed Church - 11390 Stanton Street, West Olive, 49460 at 11 AM, with visitation one hour prior at 10 AM. Private family burial will take place.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Corewell Hospice or to the Ottawa Reformed Church Building Fund.