In Memoriam: Rev. Lammert Slofstra (1924-2021)

After a full life of ministry and a richly productive season of retirement, Lammert Slofstra, 97, died on the morning of Dec. 31, 2021.

Slofstra lived with a strong work ethic, instilled in him from being born into a poor farming family in Drenthe, the Netherlands, and by living through the challenges of the depression years. Initially, he entered university to pursue a degree in engineering, but it soon became clear that God was calling him to ministry. After completing seminary in 1950, he first pastored in Hijlaard, Friesland, and then in Hengelo, Overijssel. In 1960, Slofstra immigrated to Canada with his wife and young children.

After ordination in Canada, Slofstra served Clinton Christian Reformed Church, then Willowdale CRC, both in Ontario. After moving across the country to pastor New Westminster (B.C.) CRC, the family returned to Ontario four years later to serve First CRC-Chatham-Kent and then Immanuel CRC in Simcoe. Slofstra preached passionately, visited parishioners regularly, taught catechism classes, and was involved in denominational affairs. 

At 65, Slofstra retired. After 12 years of retirement in Ontario, he and his wife moved back to western Canada. He continued to be active—preaching when needed, volunteering with Stephen Ministries, and grading Bible courses through Crossroads Prison Ministries, something he continued doing into his early 90s. He also completed two books of memoirs, which have been passed on to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Slofstra was an avid walker and enjoyed handcrafting cards. Until his final hospitalization, he created almost 100 birthday cards each year for his family and friends. He cheered for every hockey or soccer team that played for Canada or the Netherlands.

Predeceased by his wife, Alice, in 2013, Slofstra is survived by five children and their spouses, 17 grandchildren, and 50 great-grandchildren.