William Kuiper, 75, Owatonna

William “Willy” Kuiper, 75, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, in Owatonna.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Willy was born to parents John and Gertrude (Butler) Kuiper in Owatonna.

He started working at Owatonna Tool Company when he was 18 and continued to work there for about 35 years. He spoke fondly of the many friendships he gained from OTC.

He loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing throughout his life. Willy had a passion for cooking his favorite foods and was skilled at smoking all kinds of meats. Some of his favorites were turkeys and ribs, which he shared with many during gatherings and parties. He also had a knack for tinkering on and fixing anything with an engine, including tractors, lawnmowers, snowmobiles and automobiles.

The most important thing we can remember about Willy is that he was a very generous man, always willing to help, share and give to others even though he did not have a lot himself. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, telling stories about the old days over a cocktail or two!

William is survived by his daughters, Julie (Chad) Tuma, Lisa (Kelly) Klein, Kimberly Kuiper; siblings, Jim Kuiper, Charlene Gangsei, Mary Schriber, Tom Kuiper, and Linda Kuiper; nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandchild, Joshua Kuiper, and one great-grandchild, Everleigh Jones; siblings, Bob Butler, John “JK” Kuiper and Harm Kuiper.