Simon Van Kuiken

Simon Van Kuiken, age 72, beloved husband for 49 years to Claris, nee Krygsheld. Loving father of Lori (Sean) Harper, Michael (Erin) Van Kuiken and Hilary Van Kuiken. Cherished grandfather of Krysta (Tristen) Angle, Melanie Harper; Henry and Olivia Van Kuiken; Eleanor and Estelle Mitchell. Dear brother of Gail (Don) Kuiken, Jim (Debbie) Van Kuiken, Tillie (Gordon) Grimberg, Nancy (Paul) Bult, Tom (Bette) Van Kuiken and the late Karen (Dean) Leensvaart. Fond brother-in-law of Thomas John Krygsheld. Dear uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Simon Van Kuiken grew up in Roseland, IL and graduated from Chicago Christian High School (Palos Heights, IL). As a young boy, he babysat his younger siblings and delivered newspapers. At the age of twelve, his love for music won him a competition at the Chicago Conservatory of Music playing Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata.

After working several different jobs growing up, he eventually became manager for National Scavenger Service, Inc. and years later became the Plant Manager for G & F Manufacturing in Oak Lawn, IL from which he retired after 20+ years of service.

He knew how to fix most anything; he was a jack-of-all-trades. He enjoyed building and flying radio-controlled airplanes, fishing with his wife and children, obedience training his German Shepherds, taking walks with his grandchildren, and simply sitting on the porch sipping a cup of coffee in the early morning and late afternoon.

Above all else, he loved his family and the God in whom he put his trust. He passed away surrounded by his family, listening to hymns, his favorite Bible verses, and music that he loved.

Visitation Thursday, June 15, 2023 from 2-7PM with a Funeral Service to follow at 7:00PM at Colonial Chapel 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. A live-stream of the service will be available. Please visit Simon's obituary on Colonial Chapel's website at colonialchapel.com to view the live-stream of the service. Burial private at Mount Vernon Memorial Estates, Lemont, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Illinois Family Institute, P.O. Box 876, Tinley Park, IL 60477 are appreciated.

Below is a video recording of Simon's Funeral Service held on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at 7:00PM CST.