Rev. Harold De Roo

Harold P. De Roo (1925-2014)

On Thursday, August 7, 2014, the Lord called his faithful servant, Harold Peter De Roo, to his heavenly home.

Born in Patterson, New Jersey, he graduated from Rutgers University and subsequently, Western Theological Seminary. He pastored many churches in his career, including congregations in California, Ohio, and Florida as well as Youth Director for the Reformed Church in America.

He and Dorothy, his wife, returned to Holland in 2003, living at The Warm Friend, a place that he adored. Many local people will recall his welcoming smile to locals and tourists alike, earning him an award as "Holland's Downtown Ambassador." He served as a Tulip Time Trolley tour guide as well as volunteering in the Community Kitchen at Western Seminary where he wiped tables and engaged in conversation. He was a Kids Hope volunteer even into his 89th year. He loved his Lord, the church, colorful ties, and a hot cup of coffee. He was a master storyteller, using tales to bring life to Truth.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy of 65 years; his children include Mark and Roxanne de Roo of Holland, Michigan, Todd and Vicki De Roo of Tyler, Texas, and Dirk and Jan De Roo of Exeter, New Hampshire; seven grandchildren, and two great grandchildren; brother, Bernard De Roo of Dallas, Texas; his sister-in-law, Elaine Walchenbach of Holland, Michigan;

Funeral services will be 11:00 am, Monday, August 11, 2014 at First Reformed Church of Holland 630 State Street. Reverend’s Dr. Daniel Gillett and Brandon Smith will be officiating. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.

Visitation will be Sunday, August 10, from 5-7pm at Dykstra Funeral Home – Downtown Chapel, 29 East Ninth Street in Holland. Donations can be made to Resthaven Care Community, Holland Rescue Mission, or Loaves & Fishes of Apopka, Florida. To sign an on-line registry or leave a memory please visit www.dykstrafuneralhome.com