Gruessing, Johannes H. (1881-1919) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Johannes (John) H. Gruessing was born in Deternerlebe, Ostfriesland, Germany on March 30th, 1881.  At a young age, Gruessing and his family immigrated to the United States, settling near Clara City, MN. Gruessing decided to pursue a career in ministry so him and his wife, Zwaantje Frikke travelled to Sheboygan, WI for him to study at the Missionhaus.  After his 4-year stint at the Missionhaus, Gruessing went on to study at Calvin Theological Seminary earning his diploma in 1916.

Gruessing was ordained on October 1, 1916 at Lincoln Center, IA. From 1916 to 1919 the Lincoln Center church would be the first and only congregation that Gruessing would serve. During his brief time at the church, Rev. Gruessing made a large impact on soliciting funds to build his congregation a parsonage. The church house was occupied in 1919, unfortunately the young pastor never saw the fruits of his labor. On January 5, 1919 Rev. Johannes Gruessing passed away due to influenza.