John Medendorp (1892-1976) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

John Medendorp was born, October 19, 1892, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  He received his education in the local schools, graduating from Calvin Seminary in 1912.  Later he received the STD degree from Pike’s Peak Bible Seminary.

Upon graduation from the seminary, John Medendorp was ordained into the Christian ministry and remained active until shortly before his death.  During the years of full active ministry, he was minister in Dutton, Michigan, from September 23, 1921 until 1926.  Thereafter he served in Rusk, Michigan (1926-1930); Racine, Wisconsin (1930-1945); Bozeman, Montana (1945-1951); and Ogilvie, Minnesota (1951-1958).  When he retired, he continued to serve as assistant pastor of First Zeeland Christian Reformed Church from 1958-1966 and then served as assistant pastor in the South Grandville Christian Reformed Church.

During his ministry, he was active on classical committees and served as a member of the denominational Board of Home Missions.  He was delegated to synod in 1932 and in 1946.  He was an avid reader of a variety of religious magazines and kept abreast of theological studies appearing in various periodicals.

He married Wilhelmina Antoinette Hoogerwerk the year of his ordination.  She was still living when he passed away December 5, 1976.  The family included one daughter and three sons.