Vande Riet, Gerrit John (1883-1952) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Gerrit John Vande Riet was born in Dispatch, Kansas on June 5, 1883. The Vande Riet family eventually moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan where Gerrit would attend the Williams Street Christian School.  As a young man, Vande Riet made his public profession of faith at the Franklin Street Church. During this time, he voiced his intention to study ministry.  Vande Riet went on to Calvin Theological Seminary where he received his diploma in 1911.

Vande Riet's first charge was at the East Side CRC in Cleveland, Ohio in 1911. He served the East Side congregation until 1920. His second and final charge was in Overisel, Michigan. He would stay at the church until his retirement in 1945.

Vande Riet was a great writer, and wrote a column for young people in the Banner. Vande Riet also was passionate about missionary work and served on the Board of Foreign Missions for many years. During his retirement years he would also serve in the office of the Missionary Director.

Due to a physical ailment he had been suffering from since 1943, Rev. Gerrit John Vande Riet passed away on November 6, 1952. Vande Riet was married to Fannie Reinders, and they had six children together.