Brink, John W. (1865-1948) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

John W. Brink was born in the village of De Leek in  Groningen, the Netherlands on  December 14, 1865. In his early youth, Brink and his family immigrated to the United States, settling in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  After working at his father's grocery for some time, Brink felt the call to pursue ministry. He graduated from Calvin Theological Seminary in 1895. Brink entered the field as a home missionary for a year.  Together with his new bride, Bertha Vonk, they travelled west of the Mississippi for missionary work.

After a year of missionary work, Brink accepted the call from congregation of Allendale, Michigan.  Brink's other charges include, Grandville Ave., Grand Rapids (1900-1904); Bethany, Muskegon, MI (1904-1909); and Broadway Ave. Grand Rapids (1909-1912). By 1912 Rev. Brink returned to home missionary work. From 1912 to 1938, with the brief intermission of serving Zillah, WA (1925-1930); Rev. Brink brought the gospel to the Native Americans of New Mexico for the remainder of his career. He served the areas of Rehoboth, NM (1912-1925); Two Wells, NM (1930-1931); and Zuni, NM (1931-1938). He retired in 1938. On April 8, 1948 Rev, John W. Brink passed away.