Obituary

Thomas Mark Kuper, 69, passed away on March 6, 2025 in Mission Viejo, California.

Born on January 24, 1956 to Bettie and Lane Kuper of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Tom was the 3rd oldest child after Mike and Patty. He grew up in Sioux Falls with his brothers Mike, Randy, and Rick, and his sister Patty. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in the Vietnam War from 1974-1978.

Following his military service, Tom moved to California and enrolled in trade technical college. He pursued a career in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC). He worked as Operations Manager at Circulating Air Company for 13 years. He finished up his career as an Operations Manager at George Yardley Company, where he faithfully served for 7 years under the gracious leadership of Rob Yardley.

Tom was devoted to serving the church and in particular loved spending time with children in the bus ministry at Liberty Baptist Church from 2001-2012. He delighted in bringing kids to church and witnessing their joy in participating in the church.

Tom was committed to his family and loved by many. He is survived by his wife, Inshik Kuper; children: Tony Kuper, Matthew Kuper; stepchildren: Eugene Chung, Ingrid Chung Nishimoto; his grandchildren: Caleb Kuper, Hannah Kuper, Nova Chung; his siblings: Patty Kuper, Randy Kuper, Rick Kuper; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins all around the United States. He was preceded in death by his beloved older brother Mike Kuper in 2023.

Those who knew Tom remember him as a man of his word and as a devoted Christian who was proud of his Baptist heritage and being American. Inheriting his love of baseball from his father, Tom loved the game so much that he dedicated 4 years to coaching Little League, instilling that same love in his son Tony, who went on to earn a college scholarship as a pitcher and player. A highly intelligent man, Tom was a protective brother, a loving father, and a faithful husband. His passions included: mountain biking, praying, evangelizing and supporting missionaries. During his final years when he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia as a result of Agent Orange, Tom remained steadfast and patient through its ordeals, never complaining. Several people said that Tom’s face reflected his strength and joy in God.

Tom’s legacy of faithfulness and service will live on through the many lives he touched.

In lieu of donations or flowers, Tom’s family requests that you please share a memory you have of him.