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Max Schipper
Max Wells Schipper, 82, unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 leaving behind a lifetime of memories and stories that will be shared for years to come.
Born on Jan. 4, 1944, Max entered the world during World War II. His parents chose his first name, Max, and his middle name, Wells, to commemorate two friends who had lost their lives in the war.
Max grew up in Coopersville with his sisters, Daughn and Lois, graduating from Coopersville High School in 1962 before attending Hope College, where he played offensive line on the football team and earned his degree in science education.
He returned home to teach science and chemistry at Coopersville High School, spending nearly 30 years in the classroom before retiring in 1996. Max coached football, baseball, and golf. He also spent 25 years officiating high school basketball and baseball through the Michigan High School Athletic Association.
On Dec. 27, 1969, Max married Sonja Kathleen Anderson at Third Reformed Church, where they made countless friendships over the years. Together they shared 55 years of marriage and built a family they were incredibly proud of. They welcomed their son, Todd, in 1973 and later celebrated the additions of daughter-in-law Lauren and grandchildren Jackson and Addison, who brought him endless joy.
After moving to Ludington in 2007, Max and Sonja found another wonderful community of friends through the United Methodist Church of Ludington. The friendships they built there became an important part of their lives, and it is where their ashes will one day rest together.
If you knew Max, you probably knew what he loved. Golf topped the list. He looked forward to countless mornings on the course and especially treasured the good time he found with the Dew Sweepers at Lincoln Hills Golf Club. He also loved model trains, could spend hours reading books about World War II, and never turned down a chance to watch Star Trek or a good science fiction movie.
Max had a personality all his own. He could be gruff, stubborn, and more than a little grumpy—especially in his later years, Those who met him then may have caught more of his “Oscar the Grouch” side. But those who knew him best knew what was beneath that rough exterior: a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and someone who loved spending time with the people who mattered most.
Max is survived by his wife, Sonja; his son, Todd (Lauren) Schipper; his grandchildren, Jackson and Addison; his sister, Lois (Tom) Nicholson; and many cousins, in-laws, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Arlene Schipper; and his sister, Daughn (Terry) Greenwood.
The family would like to thank everyone who shared in Max’s life—whether as a student, athlete, official, golfing buddy, church friend, neighbor, or simply someone lucky enough to know him. Your friendships meant more to him than you may have realized.
A celebration of Max’s life will be held at the United Methodist Church of Ludington on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, at 11 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. In accordance with his wishes, Max’s ashes will be laid to rest in the church’s Memorial Garden.
The Schipper family extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, support, and kindness during this difficult time. Your love has been a tremendous source of comfort.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to United Methodist Church of Ludington or the Lakeshore Food Club – Food for Kids.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.
