07/28/2026
I am truly saddened by the death of Tim Klunder. Tim and I stepped into Zeeland area community leadership around the same time, he in the City and me in the Township. I was always grateful to work with him as I knew he had the best interest of the City in mind, while still maintaining a concern for the larger community. He was a man of integrity and his death is our loss.
I was privileged to provide a written Legislative Tribute to Tim just a few short weeks ago. In it we were able to recognize his many years of service to Zeeland City, the broader community and even leadership within the State. Below is the language of the tribute:
LET IT BE KNOWN, That it is with great respect and sincere appreciation that we join in recognizing Tim Klunder on the occasion of his 25 years of dedicated service as City Manager of the City of Zeeland.
For a quarter century, Tim Klunder has served the people of Zeeland with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening the community he proudly serves. Through his steady leadership and dedication to public service, he has helped shape Zeeland into a vibrant, thriving city while preserving the character and values that make it such a special place.
Tim has been instrumental in the revitalization of downtown Zeeland, championing initiatives that transformed the heart of the community through streetscape improvements, the installation of the downtown snowmelt system, the introduction of the City's first downtown liquor licenses, the hiring of the City's first Marketing Director, and the cultivation of public-private partnerships that resulted in significant mixed-use development.
His leadership has also strengthened Zeeland's economic foundation by fostering lasting relationships with local industries, supporting clean water plant expansions, and advancing critical infrastructure improvements that have enabled businesses to grow and invest in the community.
Recognizing that strong communities are built through exceptional public spaces, Tim guided transformational investments in parks and neighborhood amenities, including the expansion of Huizenga Park, the redevelopment of Hoogland Park, the creation of the Elm Street Woonerf, and the construction of the City's western gateway roundabout. His vision has enhanced the quality of life for residents while creating welcoming spaces where families, neighbors, and visitors can gather and connect.
Throughout his career, Tim has exemplified collaborative leadership, bringing together residents, businesses, community organizations, neighboring municipalities, and public agencies to advance the long-term interests of Zeeland. His thoughtful approach to governance, sound judgment, and spirit of service have earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, community leaders, and citizens alike.
IN SPECIAL TRIBUTE, Therefore, we proudly honor Tim Klunder for twenty-five years of exceptional leadership, faithful public service, and steadfast dedication to the City of Zeeland. His legacy is reflected not only in the projects completed and partnerships forged, but also in the stronger, more vibrant community he has helped build for current and future generations. May this tribute serve as an expression of our sincere gratitude and appreciation for his many contributions and as recognition of the lasting impact he has made on the City of Zeeland and the people of the State of Michigan.