Humble, hardworking, and compassionate, Allen Bultman had a way of being present with others that made them feel like they were important to him—and they were. He wasn't easily offended, welcomed different opinions, and was a good listener. His sense of humor made him approachable and fun to be with. When the doctor told him that there was nothing that could be done, and he would die, Bultman said, “This is not the end for me. It’s another step in the journey, and what awaits me is wonderful.” He passed away on March 8 at the age of 89.
A graduate of Calvin College and Seminary, Grand Rapids, Mich., Bultman was ordained in 1959 and pastored Irving Park Christian Reformed Church in Midland Park, N.J. He then served six churches in Michigan: Southern Heights CRC, Kalamazoo; Thirty-Sixth Street CRC, Wyoming; Hanley CRC, Grandville; Vogel Center CRC, McBain; Bauer CRC, Hudsonville; and Hope CRC, Grandville. He retired in 1992.
Bultman enjoyed gardening, sports, reading, current events, and time with family. “He made every minute count,” said a family member.
Preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce, Bultman will be lovingly remembered by his second wife, Betty; his four children and their spouses; and five step-children and their spouses.Together Allen and Betty loved 22 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter.
About the Author
A former nurse and chaplain, Janet Greidanus is a freelance news correspondent and long-time writer of the In Memoriam column for The Banner.
