Vogelzang, Nicholas (1919-2006) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Nicholas Vogelzang was born in Holland, Michigan on February 13, 1919. Growing up he attended Christian schools. When World War II broke out, Vogelzang served in the U.S. Navy as a pilot. In 1948 he married, Katherine Ribbens. Vogelzang worked in his family's hardware store from 1947 to 1950. At the same time, he enrolled at Calvin College and Theological Seminary. He graduated from the Seminary in 1955. After graduation, Vogelzang accepted the call to become a Home Missionary in Salt Lake City, Utah. He served there until 1964 where he became pastor of First CRC in Lansing, Michigan. His other charges include Sheldon Iowa, 1970-76; Bellevue, Washington, 1976-81; and Newton, Iowa, 1981-84. Rev. Vogelzang reached retirement in 1984.

During retirement Rev. Vogelzang kept busy by organizing seminaries in parts of Russia and Eastern Europe. He also was involved with The World Home Bible League and Worldwide Christian School. Vogelzang was the founder of Summer Workshop in Missions (SWIM) program and International Theological Evangelical Ministries (Christ for Russia). On February 12, 2006 Nicholas Vogelzang passed away in Denver, Colorado.