Donald Eugene Koopman

Donald E. Koopman, age 83, of Grand Haven, passed away at home on Friday, March 27, 2026, after a brief illness. He was born on October 20, 1942, in Grand Haven, MI, to Claude and Romana (Putz) Koopman.

Don graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1960. After graduation, he worked briefly at Botbyl Service for a few years. He then went to work at Construction Aggregates as a Purchase Agent. Don worked at Lakeside Auto as a master mechanic from 1982 until his retirement. He served in the National Guard for several years. Don married Norma Anderson on February 8, 1969, and she survives him. Norma was a middle school English teacher.

In his early life, in the 1960's, Don and Mike Dorman built a drag/show roadster. This Dorman/Koopman AAQ/SR Roadster won as the best roadster in Bristol TN in 1965, and as one of the 10 Best Hot Rod cars in the United States. This award was one of many awards they won along with being in Hot Rod Magazine in a special edition.

Don and Norma traveled to Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland, and France, as well as the Canadian Rockies and many ski trips to Winter Park Colorado. They enjoyed skiing together and always owned a boat. They owned an antique wooden boat that also won an award in Antique boat shows in the area.

Don was active in muzzle loader shooting matches throughout the state and enjoyed hunting deer and turkey. He was a lifetime member of the Rod & Gun Club and member of the Antique Outboard Motor Club. He was proud that he did his own yard work.

Don is survived by his wife, Norma Jo (Anderson) Koopman; his brother, Gerald (Sue) Koopman; sisters-in-law, Sue (Bob) Brunais and Kathie (Rob) Schwartz; brother-in-law, Tom (Diane) Anderson; along with many nieces and nephews.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Don will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at St. Patrick Church of St. Patrick - St. Anthony Parish, with Fr. Dan Schumaker officiating. Visitations will be held on Tuesday, March 31st, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Klaassen Family Funeral Home, as well as one hour prior to the service at the church.

Interment will be at Lake Forest Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Pound Buddies or St. Patrick - St. Anthony Catholic Parish.

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