The great joys of Gerald Hogeterp’s life were preaching the gospel of Jesus, listening to classical music, and singing choral music. Known for his authenticity, frankness, dry sense of humor, and his passion for justice, Hogeterp also will be fondly remembered for the presence of his voice in congregational singing. A former parishioner described how years after the Hogeterps had served her church, even though they were sitting at the back, she knew they were present because she could hear his voice during the congregational singing. Hogeterp, 80, died June 16 from multiple myeloma.
Hogeterp was born in Sneek, Fryslan, The Netherlands. His parents immigrated to Canada with their 11 children in 1952. He graduated from Calvin College (now University) and Seminary and was ordained in 1969. With his wife, Jackie, he served five churches in Canada: High River (Alta.) Christian Reformed Church; Cornerstone CRC, Chilliwack, B.C.; Bethel CRC, Saskatoon, Sask.; Calvary CRC, Ottawa, Ont.; and Covenant CRC, Woodstock, Ont. The rest of their years in ministry were spent in Nigeria with Christian Reformed World Missions (now part of Resonate Global Mission), where Hogeterp worked with Beacon of Hope, an HIV and AIDS awareness and care program connected to a large fellowship of churches in Nigeria.
Hogeterp enjoyed reading and being in nature. While serving in Nigeria, he was asked to list his goals for summer home service in Ontario. One year he answered, "To smell the pines and hear the call of the loon.”
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, Jackie; four children and their spouses; and nine grandchildren.
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.
