Bratt, Hero (1910-1996) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Hero Bratt was born in Holland, Michigan on May 5, 1910.  Bratt attended Calvin College to pursue a career in education.  Throughout his career, he taught all grades, but mostly at the high school level. With the exception of seven years of teaching in Northern Michigan and Chicago, Bratt had lived and taught almost exclusively in the Holland, Michigan area.  He taught at the Holland Christian High School for thirty-five years.

Besides teaching, Bratt's time was devoted to his church, Pillar Christian Reformed Church, community matters, and local history. For the Christian Reformed Denomination, Bratt served many years as an elder and a frequent delegate to the Synod.  In his community, Bratt served on the Herrick Public Library Board, Evergreen Kiwanis Club, and Holland Historical Trust. He was one of the founding members of the Holland Historical Society. Bratt continued to teach and speak to community and church groups even after his retirement.

On a personal level, Bratt was married to Winnie Heuker in 1932. After Winnie passed away in 1942, Bratt got remarried to Anne Westveer in 1948. Bratt had four children and 10 grandchildren.  Another personal accomplishment of Bratt's was compiling and editing the history of the Pillar Christian Reformed Church from 1847 until 1984. He published it into a book entitled, "The Pillar Church: A Book of Remembrance."

On April 18, 1996 Hero Bratt passed away due to accidental injuries. He was 85 years old. His funeral service was held at the Pillar Christian Reformed Church.