Henry Holtvluwer (1891-1979) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library
Name: Henry Holtvluwer (1891-1979)
Historical Note: Henry Holtvluwer was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on December 14, 1891. Holtvluwer married Neeltje “Nellie” Schripsema on May 20, 1915. Together they had four sons: John Henry, Hudson John, Edward Donald, and Kenneth Eugene. In 1912 Henry Holtvluwer and business partner, Roy Jurgens Sr., began Jurgens & Holtvluwer, a men’s clothing store in Grandville, Michigan. Holtvluwer was also the first Chairman of the Calvin Oratorio Society Board. Because of Mr. and Mrs. Holtvluwer’s generous contributions to the Calvin music program and oratorio society, they have a scholarship that bears their name, which provides financial support for students majoring in music. On May 4, 1979, Holtvluwer passed away.