Vander Ark, Tiede (1868-1937) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Tiede Vander Ark was born in the village of Blija, in the province of Friesland, Netherlands on January 11, 1868. At the age of 19, Vander Ark and his family immigrated to the United States, and settled in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Vander Ark entered Calvin Theological Seminary, and earned his diploma in 1897. During this time Vander Ark married Lena Lefébre. Vander Ark's first call to service came from the congregation of Borculo Christian Reformed Church.

Rev. Vander Ark's other charges included First Grand Rapids, Michigan (1900-1905); First Pella, Iowa (1905-1910); Drenthe, Michigan (1910-1916); Manhattan, Montana (1916-1922); Edgerton, Minnesota (1922-1930); and Harderwyk, Michigan (1930-1935). After 38 years of service, Rev. Vander Ark retired from active ministry. However, he continued to visit the sick and elderly of Zeeland, Michigan.

In 1937 Rev. Tiede Vander Ark suffered a blood clot, and passed away on January 13.