De Beer, Dirk (1877-1960) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Dirk De Beer was born on March 17, 1877 in Holland, Michigan. At the age of 7, he moved with his family to New Holland, South Dakota.  At the age of 13, he made his confession of faith at New Holland CRC, under the preaching of Rev. Arend W. Meyer. From this point on, De Beer had a desire to pursue a career in ministry. As a young adult, De Beer taught at local schools, but by the age of 22 he enrolled at Calvin College.  He earned his diploma from Calvin Theological Seminary in 1908, and was ordained October of that year.

De Beer first call to service came from Jenison, Michigan in 1908. He served the congregation until 1913, when he accepted the call from Prospect St. in Passaic, New Jersey.  Rev. De Beer remained at Prospect St. until his retirement in 1946. During his 33-year tenure at Prospect St., he saw the congregation double in attendance as well as oversaw the construction of a new, larger parsonage. He celebrated with his congregation the church's 100th year anniversary in 1925.

After he retired, De Beer settled in Grand Rapids. He became a member of the Neland Ave. CRC, and would assist the church's pastor, Rev. John O. Schuring.  Rev. De Beer was also committed time to serve the denomination.  He served as a delegate to the Synod at least 13 times. He was a member of the Board of Trustees of Calvin College and General Committee for Home Missions.  De Beer was also involved as a member of Church Help Committee and the Christian Seamen's Home.

After a brief illness, Dirk De Beer passed away on January 19, 1960 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was survived by his wife, Cora (Hazenberg), and their two children.