Michael J. Klippert

Michael J. Klippert was born October 20, 1946 in Sunnyside, WA to John and Martha (Kraft) Klippert, and passed from this world to his heavenly home on Wed. April 10, 2019. He graduated from Sunnyside High School in 1965, followed by one year at Yakima Valley Community College before enlisting in the Air Force. He trained and served in Texas and England as an X-Ray tech, a profession he enjoyed for many years. Upon completion of his military duty he was hired as an X-Ray tech at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, eventually becoming the Manager of Imaging Services there. His qualities of common sense, a flair for negotiation, and his ability to read people and situations, combined with a great sense of humor made him a great manager who was loved and respected by his fellow employees. He retired in 2009, after 38 years.

In 1966, Mike married his high school sweetheart, Laura Schilperoort. With joy, they welcomed their three children; Tim, Aaron, and Marti. He was proud of the adults they became. Mike loved children and had an amazing rapport with them, especially his grandchildren! Grandpa Mike would do anything for them, they were a true highlight of his life, and they were each aware of his affection and love. He was very much loved in return. He never missed the birthdays or sporting events of his grandchildren and he prayed for them daily.

Some of Mike's favorite vacations included camping trips to Ohanapecosh, fishing trips to O'Sullivan, and time spent on the Oregon coast. Mike had a green thumb and raised a flourishing garden every year with the most delicious tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes and raspberries. He was a very giving and generous person. He worshipped and served as an Elder and Deacon at Summitview Christian Reformed Church, now Faith Alive Church. He loved Jesus and grew to have a very personal relationship with Him. He was a man of integrity, faith, and love who will be missed greatly.

Mike is survived by Laura, his wife of 52 years, son Tim Klippert (Kerry), son Aaron Klippert (Kerri), daughter Marti Lommers (John III), grandchildren Isaac, Travis, Lauren, Joshua, Chloe, and Ronny Klippert, and Rebecca, Abby, and John Lommers IV; brothers Clayton and Stan Klippert, and sisters Joey Eirich and Evy Eirich. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Oliver and Rudolph Klippert, and sisters Cora Woodworth, Shirley Paradis, and Sally Cobane. We are grateful to all who ministered and cared for Mike at Memorial Hospital, North Star Lodge, Cancer Care Alliance, and Memorial Hospice throughout his long and courageous battle.

The Celebration of his life will be Wednesday, April 17th, 2019 at 11:00 am at Yakima Covenant Church (6015 Summitview Ave., Yakima). In lieu of flowers, plant a tomato plant and give half of the yield to your neighbors. If you would like to make a donation, Mike's heart was with the Union Gospel Mission and Riverside Christian School, and you are welcomed to send those in care of Brookside Funeral Home (PO Box 1267, Moxee, WA 98936), who is caring for the family.

Celebration of Life
Yakima Covenant Church
Wednesday, April 17, 2019
11:00 AM
6015 Summitview Avenue
Yakima, Washington 98908