Roger G. Timmerman, 74, was a friend of Christ, a man of the people, and an evangelist at heart. Cheerful in spite of prevailing physical discomfort, he died at home on August 6 from complications of pulmonary fibrosis.
Timmerman grew up in Hills, Minn. He attended Hills Christian School and graduated from Hills Public High School in 1957. Following a year of working in road construction, he attended Calvin College and Seminary, graduating in 1965.
Timmerman served as a church planter with Christian Reformed Home Missions, planting Fountain of Life Fellowship CRC in Fountain Valley, Calif. He also served West Evergreen CRC in Evergreen Park, Ill., and Middleville (Mich.) CRC. He retired in 2001 and moved to Hamilton, Mich., where he served East Saugatuck CRC in Holland, Mich., as an elder.
Timmerman also served on the board of Christian Reformed Home Missions and on the advisory committee of Disability Concerns.
Timmerman was as much an evangelist as he was a pastor to the flock. His sermons were crafted with care, biblically based but always addressing people's needs and struggles. Wherever he was, he made a point of talking with people. He was much appreciated for his sense of humor.
Timmerman was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1973 but never missed a Sunday service. On August 6 he came home from breakfast, and, walking to the door, collapsed and breathed his last. In spite of his physical limitations, he was his family's enthusiastic cheerleader in all events.
Timmerman is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and their children Ross and Sue Timmerman, Rolfe and Stacy Timmerman, Rolin and Polly Timmerman, and six grandchildren.
About the Author
The late Louis Tamminga (d. Nov. 11, 2024), a long-time pastor, leader, and administrator in the Christian Reformed Church, wrote the pastors' In Memoriam column for The Banner until 2015.
