Don Kuyper

Donald “Don” Kuyper, 88, of Plankinton, SD, passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at his home surrounded by family. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, October 28, at Aurora Reformed Church in Aurora Center, SD. Burial will be at Aurora Center Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, October 27, from 5-7:00 PM with a 6:30 PM prayer service at Aurora Reformed Church. Arrangements by Bittner Funeral Chapel.

Donald Kuyper was born on June 19, 1935, in his home in Aurora County, to Edward and Grace (Groeneweg) Kuyper. Don attended school at Pleasant Lake and Truro Country schools.

Don married his sweetheart, Donna Mae Houtkooper, on December 2, 1953, at Grace Reformed Church in Corsica, SD. Seven children came from this loving marriage of nearly 70 years: David Lee, Douglas Gene, Daniel Wayne, Carson Edward, Dwight LaVern, Dawn LeAnne, and Darcy Dean. Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

Don had an unconditional love for his family and friends. He was incredibly generous with time and money. He was a member of the Christian Motorcyclist Association and loved riding motorcycle. His love for riding was passed on to his wife, children, and grandchildren. He rode until he was 88, making countless memories. He also loved spending time in the Black Hills with family.

Don had a great love of music. He sang in The Harmony Four quartet for 35 years. He was a dedicated gospel singer and sang with many other quartets/groups. He was requested by many for special music - weddings, funerals, gatherings. He enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Vikings.

Don loved all things mechanical. He was a mechanic for many years. He had a passion for fixing and restoring all types of things. He retired from the Aurora County Highway Department after over 16 years of service at the age of 70. Don served as an Elder and Deacon at the Aurora Reformed Church for many years.

Don is survived by his wife, Donna; children, Daniel (Melanie) Kuyper of Madison, Carson Kuyper of Chancellor, Dwight (Julia) Kuyper of Hudson, Dawn (Dan) Veurink of Stickney, and Darcy Kuyper of Stickney; daughter-in-law, Nonie Kuyper of Sioux Falls; 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Duane (Mary) Kuyper and Ken (Carol) Kuyper; sisters, LaVonne Blackman and Eunice Walz; and sister-in-law, Mavis Veurink.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons, David and Douglas Kuyper, one great-grandson, two brothers, parents-in-law, daughter-in-law Karla Kuyper, seven brothers-in-law, and three sisters-in-law.