In Memoriam: Rev. John T. Ebbers

Rev. John T. Ebbers considered it a precious privilege to have spent many years not only learning from the Word of God, but also preaching and teaching that Word to many different people. If one had to choose a single word to describe Ebbers, it would be “encourager.” He  had a gift of being able to uplift and inspire others with hope, courage, and confidence. Ebbers died on July 6 in Grand Rapids, Mich., of natural causes. He was 84.
Born in 1930 in Edmonton, Alta., Ebbers attended Calvin College and Seminary, graduating in 1956.

Ebbers faithfully served the following Christian Reformed congregations: Grace CRC in Muskegon, Mich.; Corsica (S.D.) CRC; Lombard (Ill.) CRC; Calvary CRC in Orange City, Iowa; and Conrad (Mont.) CRC. He also served on the board of trustees of Calvin College and Seminary, the board of Christian Reformed Home Missions, and the denominational Loan Fund committee.

Many of the churches Ebbers served had building projects during his time of ministry. One offered him the opportunity to design the pulpit. After selecting the materials, style, and features, Ebbers had a metal plaque engraved and installed so that all who stood at that pulpit would see the inscription taken from John 12:21: “Sir, we want to see Jesus.” This was Ebbers’ charge. This was his calling and his life’s work—to introduce people to Jesus.

Apart from his work, Ebbers enjoyed being outdoors and working in the garden. One of his hobbies was collecting antiques and refinishing furniture. He was a devoted family man.

Ebbers was predeceased by his son Mark. He is survived by Janet, his wife of 62 years; their children Laura and Glenn Weiss, Doug Ebbers, Nancy and Dave Thompson, Brian and Diane Ebbers, Brenda and Alan Koel; and 12 grandchildren.