Hendrik Jay Poppen

Hendrik “Hank” Poppen, 73, of Portage, Michigan, returned to his heavenly home with Jesus Christ on November 12th, 2024. Hank was born in Wildervank, Netherlands, on July 28th, 1951, the son of the late Jelis and Aaltje (DeJonge) Poppen.

With his family, he immigrated to the United States in 1957 and attended Kalamazoo Christian Schools, graduating in 1970. Hank worked at Meijer Inc. for 35 years, starting in 1968 and retiring in 2003. During that time, he became a United States Citizen in 1988.

In 1989 Hank and his son, Brian, joined Boy Scout Troop 244, where he then became the Scout Leader and continued in that role until his final day with us. He was a mentor and friend to so many in the Boy Scout community. In his time as a Scout Leader, Hank helped 175 scouts reach the Eagle Scout Rank, including his son, Brian. He was also an early role model for incorporating females into the Boy Scout Troop, creating a co-ed troop of Explorers in 1999, which included his own daughter, Erika. Then in 2019, he was able to officially welcome females into his troop, which included his granddaughter, Rebekah, and nephew's daughter, Lis, who also reached the Eagle Scout rank. He took his troop on hundreds of campouts all over the United States, including his favorite place, Philmont in New Mexico. This past summer, despite his failing health, he made his last venture to Philmont and worked at base camp while his scouts trekked. He will be deeply missed by the scouting community.

Hank was also an avid bowler. He became the Bowling Coach for Kalamazoo Christian High School in 2011 and was very proud of his bowling teams. He became a known figure at the Airway Lanes bowling alley over the years and bowled every Monday night for 35 years with lifelong friends.

Hank was a member of Third Christian Reformed Church; he was a man of strong faith and cherished his time attending Sunday services and bible study. His faith was such a big part of his life and led him to be the mentor and friend he was to so many.

He loved his family, and always wanted everyone to be together, especially around Christmas. This past Christmas, he organized a big family gathering. He was so excited to see everyone and cherished that day. He loved all his children and grandchildren very much. In 2010, his longtime friend, Marlene, fostered newborn Joesiyia (Joey) and together they continued to be a major part in his life. He loved and cared for Joey like he was his own son.

He is survived by his daughters, Andrea Paladino and Erika (Nick) Cutler; his son, Brian Poppen; grandchildren: Madison Cutler, Layla Cutler, Charlotte Cutler, Rebekah Poppen and Rachel Poppen; his foster son, Joesiyia Blair-Hill; his longtime friend, Marlene Hickok, and her children, Andrew (Ross) Hickok, Katie (David) Hickok Mannebach, and grandchild, Declan; sisters: Ellen (Mike) Crawford, Kitty Longenecker, and Rika (Hank) Ritsema; and so many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Hank was preceded in death by his parents, Jelis and Aaltje Poppen; and brother, Ben Poppen.

Hank was one of a kind, characterized by his faith and love for his community. He will be missed by so many. Please join us in honoring his memory. A visitation will be held on November 26th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 411 E Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49002, followed by a service on November 27th at 10:00 am at Third Christian Reformed Church, 2400 Winchell Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008. A committal service will take place at 12:00 pm at Mt. Ever Rest Memorial Park South, 3941 S Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008.

In his memory, you may donate to Boy Scout Troop 244; donation entry is at the bottom of the page.