James Huizenga (1933-1981) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Pastor James Huizenga was born in Highland, Indiana on October 14, 1933. Huizenga attended Calvin Seminary and graduated in 1959. The same year he was ordained and served the congregation in Terrace, British Columbia, Canada. He later went on to serve the congregations of Harrison, South Dakota (1964); Edson, Alberta, Canada, and First Brandon, Manitoba, Canada (1975).

Pastor James struggled with physical weakness for a number of years.  When he came to Grand Rapids to attend a summer course at Calvin Seminary on the Apocalypse, he came to the end of his life.  When he failed to appear at a class session, he was found in his dormitory room having died of a heart attack.

His sudden death occurred, June 9, 1981.  His wife, Louise Thomas, and children, Tom, Tim, Calvin, Phyllis and Jana, survived him. He faithfully served four congregations. God’s Word came through him to those who came to worship.