De Koekkoek, Paul (1890-1982) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Paul De Koekkoek, born June 7, 1890, emigrated from the Netherlands to the United States in 1909 where, at the age of twenty-four, he decided to go to school to enter the ministry.  De Koekkoek graduated from Calvin Theological Seminary in 1923 and was called by the Comstock (MI) Christian Reformed Church; he subsequently served in Oskaloosa, IA; Otley, IA; Hills, MN; Edmonton, Alberta; and as Home Missionary to growing congregations in southwestern British Columbia and in the Okanagan Valley.  He also was pastor to the Zillah Christian Reformed Church and the Seattle Christian Reformed Church in Washington.  At the age of sixty-eight he retired from active ministry but continued ministerial and community activities especially in the Seattle area.

Aside from his particular pastoral activities, De Koekkoek was also involved in other pursuits.  He was editor of the Canadian Calvinist for several years after 1945.  He took an active role in ministering to the Dutch immigrants and promoted the cause of Christian education on both the lower and secondary levels.  He helped to set up a Christian Civic League in Seattle as well as in Pella, IA, and was involved in politics, lodge matters, and other civic concerns.  He served as chaplain on an immigrant ship in 1956.  He also participated in a radio ministry in the Okanagan Valley.

This indefatigable worker was mentally alert and active until his tragic death on November 13, 1982. Paul De Koekkoek was married to Lena Wassen and they had one son named John William.