Rev. Bernard Niekerk

Rev. Bernard Niekerk, The celebration of a godly life! Bernard Niekerk, 95, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on Thursday, October 7, 2010. 

Bernie was born in Hull, Iowa on August 12, 1915 to Derke and Alice (DeJong) Niekerk. On August 6, 1949 he married Ruth Jingst in Sutter, Illinois. Bernie was a great example of faithfulness, married for 56 years to his wife, Ruth, who passed in to God’s presence four years ago. Bernie was a World War II Navy Veteran. He graduated from Moody Bible Institute and with his wife began their 56 years of ministry service. They worked with the migrant workers in Bakersfield, CA. and he was a devoted Pastor, serving churches in Iowa, Nebraska, and Michigan. God will reward him for longing for his appearing and for shepherding with a faithful heart.

Bernie will be sadly missed by his children; Debra and Terry Baxter of Rudyard, Brenda and Kurt Hoffman of Stanton, and Philip and Janice Niekerk of Ada; grandchildren, Kari and Grant Getschow, Trent Niekerk, Kati Niekerk, Jordan Hoffman, Jesse Hoffman.

Bernie’s family will greet friends on Sunday, October 10th from 3-6 at the Barden Funeral Home in Stanton. A celebration of Bernie’s life will be Monday, October 11 at 10 a.m. at the Trinity Evangelical Free Church in Stanton. Pastors Philip Niekerk and Kurt Hoffman will officiate. The family has suggested memorial contributions go to the John Musser Gospel Revival Ministries; envelopes will be available at the funeral home and the church.