Garrett Kempers (1898-1987) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Garrett Kempers was born in Iowa on November 1, 1898.  Kempers attended Calvin College for his undergraduate studies. Once he graduated from Calvin, Kempers went on to earn his master’s and doctorate degree in history from the University of Michigan. From 1932 to 1964, Kempers served as a history professor at Westmar College in Le Mars, Iowa. Professor Kempers was awarded with emeritus status once he retired.  Kempers authored several books during his life. He also wrote numerous articles for the Journal of Modern History and for the Foreign Policy Association.

On a personal level, Kempers was involved in the Le Mars Rotary Club and a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Le Mars. Professor Kempers and his wife, Laura, moved to the sunshine state in 1967. They settled down in Sarasota to enjoy their retirement. Kempers became a member of the Church of the Palms Presbyterian Church. He also was a member of the Sarasota Yacht Club and the Sarasota Bay Rotary Club. On November 20, 1987, Dr. Garrett B. Kempers passed away at Memorial Hospital in Sarasota, Florida.