“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
On December 30th CEF Chicago lost a brother, a friend, a supporter, a fighter, a teacher, and so much more. Bob Kuiper, age 78, who was a part of Chicago CEF for over 20 years, went to be with his Lord and Savior on December 30th. Bob’s personality was “larger than life”, always looking forward to meeting new people and introducing them to CEF and his Savior. For many years Bob oversaw a Good News Club in his local public school, 5-Day Clubs in the summers, connected Ozinga with CEF, who then donated all of the concrete for the HUB parking lot, and a large portion of the funds for the HUB work were a direct result of Bob and his contacts. Take a moment to get to know Bob through the eyes of those who were able to see His passion for others to meet their maker in heaven one day too.
“Bob, we celebrate your life and the legacy you left behind. Thank you for running the race well and for always being true to God’s calling on your life, while always pointing all you came into contact with to Jesus. You will be missed by the CEF staff, children in your clubs, and all who were impacted by your life.” – Jonathan King | Chicago Metro Director
Below are testimonies from the life and ministry of Bob Kuiper
Leslie – CEF Chicago Missionary
“When he entered a room he was ready to greet you with a hug and genuinely cared about how you were doing. I knew a prayer warrior was on my side with Bob Kuiper as a friend.” Leslie shared.
Angela – CEF Chicago missionary
“Bob has been a vital part of the ministry of CEF and shared his love for God with others until his last breath. He alongside his wife Marge showed a special love and interest in me, encouraging and praying for me while opening their hearts and their home to me. As we broke bread together they shared their gifts with support raising guidance, their love to help me in the ministry as well as my personal life. My home has a plaque which is a piece of him/them that I experience every day through their gift to me, A scripture verse that hangs on my wall. Nahum 1:7. “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the times of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him”. Bob will forever hold a place in my heart.” Angela
Brandon Fenner – Former CEF Chicago missionary and GNC teacher
“I had the honor to work with Bob at one of Child Evangelism Fellowship’s after-school programs for over five years. In all my years of ministry, I cannot think of someone more dedicated to loving and serving the children at that club than Bob. Whether it was the first time or the hundredth time he had seen them, he would share the love of Jesus with them. Most importantly, he demonstrated time and time again that he loved with actions first and foremost and not just words. If he knew of a child or family going through a hard time, he didn’t just wish them the best, he helped them in any and every way he could. The selfless dedication he exhibited is a great testimony of God’s love and compassion. He loved those kids not just when convenient, not just when they were at club, but always—always willing to make many personal sacrifices for them and their family’s benefit. His fervor for child evangelism is a testimony to us all. I am thankful for the selfless example of Bob Kuiper as I fondly reflect on the work God accomplished through him.” – Brandon
Jennifer Easter – Volunteer with CEF of Chicago
“Going from a home-based GNC to a school-based GNC was difficult for me and I was very nervous. Bob and the volunteers were very patient and the entire group helped me to have a very enjoyable and memorable experience. I learned a lot, and I’m still thankful for the lessons. The Lord used Bob to help me develop the desire to work with CEF on a permanent basis in the after-school GNC program. Bob gave his time, talents, and his treasures to the cause of Christ. And we are thankful.”
Marvella Black – Long time volunteer with CEF Chicago
“Bob Kuiper reminds me of the song Thank You” by Ray Boltz.
I dreamed I went to heaven and Bob was there with me. We walked upon the streets of gold beside the crystal sea. We heard the angels singing then someone called his name.
He turned and saw a young man and he was smiling at Bob. Friend, you may not know me now. And then he said but wait you used to teach my Good News Club when I was only eight. And every week you would say a prayer before the class would start and one day when you said that prayer, I asked Jesus in my heart.
Thank you for giving to the Lord, Bob. Many boys and girls are saying… I am a life that was changed. Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.
Then another man stood before Bob and said remember the time… A missionary came to your church and his pictures made you cry. You didn’t have much money but you gave it anyway. Jesus took the gift you gave and that’s why I’m here today.
Thank you for giving to the Lord, Bob. I am a life that was changed. Thank you for giving to the Lord… I am so glad you gave.
One by one they came far as the eyes could see; each life somehow touched by Bob’s generosity. Little things that he had done, sacrifices made, unnoticed on the earth… In heaven now proclaimed.
And I know that up in heaven you’re not supposed to cry but I am almost sure there were tears in his eyes as Jesus took his hand and he stood before the Lord.
He said, Bob my child, look around you… for great is your reward.
Thank you for giving to the Lord we are lives that were changed.
Thank you for giving to the Lord we are so glad you gave.”
