He was born in Holland and grew up attending the public schools. Upon graduating from Holland High School, he continued on to earn a B.S. degree in chemistry from Hope College, followed by a B.S. degree and PhD in microbiology and public health from Michigan State; of course he rooted for the Spartans! He began his career at Sinclair Oil, which was acquired by Atlantic Richfield. At that time, he moved to Grand Rapids to work for Mitco, a water treating chemical company. He worked as their technical director until his retirement some 37 years later.
While he was at Michigan State, he met his future wife, Kathy, to whom he was married for 60 years. Together they had two daughters. His younger daughter, Karen Kools McLaughlin, preceded him in death, as did his parents, Willis and Jo Kools; sister Elizabeth Parker; and his dear aunt, Rena Boven. He is survived by his wife Kathy; his daughter Kristen Kulp; and beloved granddaughters Kellie and Lauren Kulp.
For many years, John was active at East Congregational Church UCC in Grand Rapids, and later attended Hope Reformed Church in Holland, which is the church he grew up attending. John loved to travel, and he and Kathy took many trips to Europe and throughout the United States. He was also very fond of Sand Key, Florida, where he and Kathy would spend time in the fall. This allowed them to enjoy the beautiful beaches and spend time with Kris and her family. John was also an avid reader and enjoyed the educational opportunities offered by HASP at Hope College.
A memorial service for John take place on Saturday, August 24 at 2 PM at Hope Reformed Church – 77 W. 11th St., Holland, MI 49423.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Hope College Chemistry Department – A. Paul Schaap Science Center, 35 E 12th St, Holland, MI 49423.
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