In Memoriam: Rev. John Bylsma

John Bylsma was known for his strong, biblical sermons, his joyful character, and his deep desire to emulate Jesus’ love for others. John, 96, died June 8. “Preacher of the Word” are the words he chose to have engraved on his tombstone.

Born ‘Johannes’ in Hallum, the Netherlands, he was deeply influenced by the Hallum Reformed Church, where he’d later recall God “spoke to him” during worship and stirred his heart to faith. John was a teenager when Nazi troops occupied his town during the Second World War. He later shared stories of those days with his children and in presentations to Christian elementary schools.

The Bylsma family immigrated to Wisconsin in 1948. After marriage to Henriette Wynstra in 1950, the couple moved to Grand Rapids, Mich., where John studied at Calvin College (now University) and Seminary.

After graduation and ordination in 1955, John pastored East Paris (Mich.) Christian Reformed Church followed by Second Roseland CRC and Third Roseland CRC, both in Chicago, Ill. He then served Kedvale CRC, Oak Lawn, Ill.; Calvary CRC, Bloomington, Minn.; and Brookfield (Wisc.) CRC. Retiring in 1996, John served several congregations as interim pastor and as a guest preacher until age 95.

One of John’s most memorable and inspiring experiences was traveling to Mexico and Nigeria as president of the CRC Board of World Missions, which became Resonate Global Mission in 2017. He was overwhelmed with admiration for people who, even in extreme poverty, were filled with the Holy Spirit, singing with a joy that he had never before witnessed. John also served for three years as president of the board for Back to God Hour (now ReFrame Ministries). He and Henriette also led several group tours to Israel.

Predeceased in 2023 by Henriette, his wife of 72 years, John is survived by four children and their spouses; nine grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.