In Memoriam: Rev. Wesley Timmer

Rev. Wesley Timmer, 75, sensitive encourager, dedicated preacher, compassionate listener, and sports enthusiast,  died of unknown causes in his home in Byron Center, Mich.

Timmer grew up in Drenthe, Mich., attending Holland (Mich.) Christian High School and Reformed Bible Institute (now Kuyper College) in Grand Rapids for two years before graduating from Calvin College in l960 and from Calvin Theological Seminary in l963.

He married Marilyn Nyenhuis in l955.

Timmer’s first congregation was Calvary Christian Reformed Church in Holland, Mich., in l963. Four churches followed: Middleville (Mich.) CRC, l968; Cascade Fellowship CRC, Grand Rapids, 1972; Hanley CRC, Grandville, Mich., 1979; and Goshen (N.Y.) CRC , 1989. Timmer retired in l997.

During his retirement years he served as a chaplain on the ventilator unit of Metropolitan Hospital in Grand Rapids. He also frequently occupied the pulpit of Grace CRC Muskegon, Mich., and served as a visiting pastor for First Cutlerville (Mich.) CRC.

Timmer was a dedicated preacher of the Word. He had a deep love for people. The parishioners of the churches he served testify how they looked forward to his visits.

Listening to them, sharing their thoughts and concerns, came effortlessly to him. Timmer was a compassionate and caring friend to many.

All through the years he remained a sports enthusiast and was known as a fine softball player.

Timmer was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn, and is survived by his children Brenda and Steve Hofman, Robert and Melinda Timmer, and Shelley and Phil Porter, as well as five grandchildren.