Freerk Wilken Jan “John” Kuiper
Passed away peacefully at Guelph General Hospital on July 16, 2026, at the age of 76.
Beloved father of Melissa Kuiper-Sirio (Denton), Freerk Kuiper, and Anneke Cranford (Brad).
Proud grandfather of Dante Sirio (Harmony), Jonas Cranford, Godfrey Cranford and Mayika Cranford.
Sadly missed by his siblings Cecil Kuiper, Diana Norwich (Edward), Jake Kuiper (Cheryl), Henry Kuiper (Daisy), and Joyce Steele (Jon) and all his nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
Fondly remembered by Maris Curtin, the mother of his children. Together they built the foundation of a family that remained one of his greatest sources of pride.
Dearly missed by his best friend and companion Janice Dupuis.
Predeceased by his late wife Yvonne (Pullen), his parents Hendrik and Cornelia (Jonkman) and sister-in-law Linda Kuiper (Cecil).
Born in Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands, John immigrated to Canada with his family at the age of 10, where he built a life defined by hard work, friendship, and a deep love for family. He enjoyed a long and successful career as a Master Electrician and proud member of IBEW Local 804, retiring in 2019 after many years of dedicated service.
A passionate Toronto sports fan, he could often be found cheering on the Raptors, Blue Jays, Maple Leafs, and Toronto FC. Closer to home, he loved attending Guelph Storm hockey games and Guelph Royals baseball games, sharing that enthusiasm with family and friends.
John was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in fishing, hunting, camping, and canoeing. He treasured time spent in nature and created many lasting memories with his family on lakes, trails, and campgrounds throughout the years. He was also a member of the former Royal City CB Club, proudly known by the handle "Beer Mug," and enjoyed the club's many summer campouts and gatherings.
Music was another important part of his life, and he was proud to be an alumnus of the Guelph Royalaires Drum and Bugle Corps., where he enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships that came with it.
He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life: tending to his garden, solving crossword puzzles, sharing a cold beer with friends at RU Serious, and most of all, spending time with his family. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren participate in their sporting events, and he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on from the sidelines.
John will be remembered for his strong work ethic, sense of humor, love of the outdoors, loyalty to his friends, and devotion to his family. His presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, 6:00 PM at the Red Chevron Club, 34 Elizabeth Street, Guelph, ON. In lieu of flowers, donations made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
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