Harold DeVries Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

DeVries, Rev. Harold John completed his earthly life on Feb 20. He was 96 years old and at peace when he passed away at his home, Friendship Village in Bloomington. He had spent his life as he wished, in service to his Lord, as pastor to many, and husband to his beloved wife June who preceded him. Rev. DeVries led congregations in Michigan, Illinois and the Twin Cites beginning more than 70 years ago. He counseled, taught and inspired tirelessly, never stopping his own study, never failing to look to Heaven for direction, never wavering in his faith and his witness. He loved to preach and sing, he loved his work, and he loved the Lord. He believed deeply in spreading the Gospel and with all his heart, mind and body supported the missionaries of Christ around the world, introducing them to his churches, praying for them, and visiting them in the field. And he loved his family. His children, Tom, Susan and Steve, made Harold grandpa to eight, and in turn great grandfather to eight, all of whom knew and loved him. So the impact of his long life - which began early in the Twentieth Century - will easily extend at least to the end of the Twenty-first. He knew without doubt that a place had been prepared for him in Heaven. He left us for it with anticipation and joy. As much as we do and will miss him, we are happy for him too. It was, as they say, a righteous life. The memorial service will be held at Friendship Village on Saturday, Feb 28, at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to the Friendship Village Employee Appreciation Fund, or The Evangelical Alliance Mission.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.

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Our loving memories of Harold go back to Central Free Church, Minneapolis, MN where he was the commmissioning pastor when we left to serve with SIM in Libeia, West Africa. We were blessed by his teaching of the Word and his challenges to commit our lives to serving the Lord. In 1966 he challenged us with the reminder that our first son, Brian, was on loan, a gift from the Lord. Today Brian and his wife serve with their family in Niger, Africa. The fruit of Harold's ministry continues.

Bart & Ruth Bliss

February 28, 2009 | Yucaipa, CA

Tom, Steve & Susan,

We loved both your father & mother, as they served at Brooklyn Park Evangelical Free Church. Harold is now re-united with his beloved "Junie", as they stand before the Lord together.

We remember Harold answering "How are you?" with a contagious smile and a single word----"SCRUMPTIOUS!" He used to stand in the parking lot talking to people after church, and teasing, "That's the trouble with Free Church people---they never know when to go home!!!"

Robert Green

February 28, 2009 | Brooklyn Center, MN

Harold was our pastor at Barrington EFC when we attended TEDS. He mentored us and gave us many opportunities for serving. He really launched us into ministry. He's a giant!

John & Carol Herman

February 26, 2009 | Eagan, MN

Feb. 26, 2009

Susan,

I send heartfelt condolences. Holding you in thought at prayer at this time of loss.

Jane Thompson

Jane Thompson

February 26, 2009 | Minnetonka, MN

When I heard about Harold's homegoing, I immediately thought of a book he gave me to read back in 1990 called, Destined for the Throne. It turned out to be a timely read, as my husband was killed in a construction accident while I was reading it. The thesis of the book is that God is using everything, and everyone in our lives to prepare us to be a worthy bride for Christ. And to be a worthy bride we must become overcomers and praise is the key to the fight. Only the LORD knows how much...

Marsha Peterson

February 25, 2009 | Woodbury, MN

My sympathy to the family and my gratitude for a life well lived, and wonderful offspring.

Richard Fuller

February 25, 2009 | Saint Paul, MN

Rev. DeVries was my pastor when I was a teen-ager at Central Free Church. He had a profound influence on my life through his words of wisdom and books he lent me to read, but also as the father of my friends Sue and Steve. I had many happy times at their home and one adventure in Chicago packing up Grandpa's house. I will continue to treasure these memories and will keep the family in my prayers.

Judy Iverson

February 25, 2009 | Richfield, MN

Dear Family,
Working at FVB I got to know your parents well, and will remember Harold for his never failing faith. Many a kind word he spoke to help me along my path. I will always remember his response when I would ask him how he was that day, he would simply answer, "rejoycing". I know that his words have come true now and he is rejoycing forever. Thank you for sharing your Dad with so many!

Amy Sievers Votel

February 25, 2009 | Mendota Hts, MN

Dear Sue, and family

Thinking of you at this time. I remember well, your father, his tall stature and his exuberant, strong faith. My mother died at age 91 this past November. All life comes to the time when we are "the older ones" - May God bless you all in these days.

Carole Swanson Lloyd

February 25, 2009 | Cambria, WI

Rev. Harold John DeVries

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