In Memoriam

Rev. Bernard T. Haan

Nov. 14, 1921 – Aug. 27, 2007

Rev. Bernard T. Haan, pastor, producer of travelogues, and director of choirs, passed away March 29 in Denver, following a massive stroke.

Haan was born and grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich., where he attended Seymour Christian School. He graduated from Grand Rapids Christian High School in 1939, from Calvin College in 1943, and from Calvin Theological Seminary in 1946, the same year he married Ella Ledeboer.

Rev. Haan’s first charge began in 1946, when he was called to New Life Christian Reformed Church, Ionia, Mich. In 1949 Haan was installed as pastor of Second CRC, Randolph, Wis. Five years later the family moved to Everett, Wash., where Bernard became pastor of First CRC. One more church was to follow: Second CRC of Pella, Iowa, in 1961. Haan retired from the ministry in 1964. During his retirement he continued to serve churches in various capacities.

Haan was an enterprising minister with many interests. He enjoyed preaching and related well with the younger members of the churches he served. His creative mind was put to good use in biblical research, which enabled him to produce some 13 study manuals on different books of the Bible. Musically gifted, he regularly led church choirs. He also enjoyed some fame as a photographer; many of his pictures were incorporated into several travelogues that were appreciated widely by church groups and beyond.

Haan is survived by his wife, Ella; by their children, Michael Haan, David and Arlene Haan, and Jerome and Denise Haan; and by three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.