Fred E. Kooi

Fred Earl Kooi, born on May 17, 1944 in Ireton, Iowa, to Henrietta and Earl Kooi passed into glory on March 2, 2026 in Michigan at the age of 81. Fred grew up on a farm near Ireton, with his sisters: Lorna, Bev, Donna, Carmen and Barb. He developed a strong work ethic and love for the outdoors by raising 4H animals and helping out on the farm. He took piano lessons as a young boy, and was soon teaching piano lessons and playing for church services and weddings. These early experiences shaped a lifelong appreciation for family, music, and God’s marvelous creation. On December 27, 1967, Fred married Dorothy Hoogwerf. Their marriage was marked by deep love, partnership, and faith. Together they raised four children: Kris Eyser, Kim (David) Hubers, Eric (Jennifer) Kooi, and Anna (Craig) Bosma. Fred and Dori were proud and devoted grandparents to Payton Kooi, Dane Hubers, Dre Hubers, Audra Kooi, Jack Eyser, Emma Eyser, Chloë Kooi, Penelope Bosma, Amelia Bosma, Lewis Bosma, and Juliana Bosma. He treasured time with his grandchildren and loved watching them grow. He delighted in playing games, making music, talking, and laughing with them. Fred’s appreciation and commitment to Christian education began by attending Ireton Christian Elementary School, Western Christian High School (Hull, Iowa), and Dordt College (Sioux Center, Iowa), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education in 1965. Later, he received a Master’s degree in Music Education from Northeast Missouri State University in 1973. He devoted his 43 year teaching career to Christian schools - teaching in Iowa, California, and Alabama - sharing his passion for music with generations of students. While he didn’t talk about it often, Fred served his country in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970. Specialist Kooi assisted greatly in the accomplishment of the Chaplain mission, contributing immeasurably to the high efficiency of the religious program of the command at Ft Irwin, CA. As chief clerk, choir director of two choirs, chapel organist, and pianist Fred demonstrated outstanding ability, devotion to duty and untiring effort. In addition to teaching, Fred faithfully served as a church musician for many years—playing piano and organ, directing choirs, and leading instrumental groups. His musical gifts were a means through which he encouraged worship and fellowship within the church community. He was an elder, catechism teacher, and men’s Life leader as well. He loved gardening, spending time outdoors, traveling, volunteering, reading, puzzling, teaching ESL classes, playing in municipal bands, and singing in community choirs. Fred also found joy in bringing music to residents of care facilities, sharing encouragement and companionship through song. He cherished time spent with extended family and friends over the years. Above all, Fred’s life was guided by his faith. The most important aspect of his life was glorifying God, knowing salvation through Jesus Christ, and encouraging others to know the Lord and put their faith in Him. His devotion to his faith, his marriage, and his family defined the way he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. Fred will be remembered for his love of music, his faithful service, his warm encouragement to others, and the joy he found in family and faith. His life was a testimony to the power of music, devotion, and a life lived for the glory of God. Military Funeral Honors: Friday, April 3, 2026 2:30 p.m. Great Lakes National Cemetery. Celebration of Life Service: Saturday, April 4, 2026 10:30 a.m. at StoryPoint Canton, 49825 Ford Road Canton, MI 48187 Memorial Contributions may be made to Ireton Christian School 104 5th Street Ireton, IA 51027 https://www.iretonchristianschool.com/support-ics Arrangements entrusted to Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, Plymouth. To share a memory, please use the Share a Memory tab on this webpage.

Fred E. Kooi

May 17, 1944 - March 2, 2026