Keizer, Andrew (1857-1935) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Andrew (Andries) Keizer was born in the village of Echten, located in the province of Friesland, the Netherlands on November 22, 1857.  Growing up Keizer felt the calling to become a minister. He did his initial studies in the Netherlands, then immigrated to the United States in 1883. Keizer settled in Grand Rapids, Michigan where he attended Calvin Theological Seminary. He graduated with his diploma in 1886.

Keizer first call to service came the congregation of Frist CRC in Grand Haven, Michigan in 1886. He served the church until 1888. Rev. Keizer's other charges include: Second Muskegon, MI (1888-91); East Saugatuck, MI (1891-96); Drenthe, MI (1896-1898); Graafschap, Michigan (1898-1902); Ninth St., Holland, MI (1902-10); Beaverdam, MI (1910-16); Overisel, MI (1916-19); Harderwyk, MI (1919-25). Rev. Keizer did all of his preaching in his native language of Dutch Rev. Keizer was granted with emeritus status in 1925. While living in Holland, Michigan, Keizer remained active in the community during his retirement.  He would visit the sick at the hospital and shut-ins. He often would officiate funerals and occasionally would be a guest preacher at the local churches.

Over the course of his life, he was president of the Synod on five different occasions, and served on the board of trustees of Calvin College and Seminary for twenty-five years. He also served many years as the editor of the De Wachter. After a long illness, Rev. Andrew Keizer passed away on September 12, 1935. He was survived by his wife, Geertruida Maria Catharina Jurgens.