Carlton "Bruce" Wierks

Carlton Bruce Wierks, 79, of Holland, Michigan, peacefully passed away on November 1, 2024, celebrating his new life face to face with Jesus after battling corticobasal degeneration (CBD), a rare brain degenerative disease. He chose to donate his body for medical research to increase understanding for this disease.
Born on October 14, 1945, in Hospers, Iowa, to Arthur and Wilhelmina Wierks, Bruce grew up in a loving family that instilled in him the values of faith and service. He pursued higher education, earning a bachelor's degree from Northwestern College. After two years at Western Seminary he accepted an internship in inner city New Jersey and graduated with a Master's of Divinity from New Brunswick Seminary in 1971.
Bruce began his pastoral ministry at Chatham Reformed Church, New York. His ministry continued with the Reformed Church in America serving local churches and for the RCA Extension Foundation as well as a financial planner. He retired from his position in Advancement at Western Theological Seminary, Holland, MI.
A man of many interests, Bruce found joy in family, friends, golfing, theatre, sporting events, flying airplanes, travel and fishing. He often shared stories of his fishing trips, where he found peace and connection with nature, and his theatrical passion brought laughter and joy to those around him both in and out of the theatre. He was known for welcoming people in need into his home with warm hospitality, meals, support, maybe a little cash, and a good story. Bruce's generosity reflected his deep commitment to sharing the love of Jesus Christ.
In 1968, Bruce married Mary Ann Hooyer of Sheldon, Iowa. Together they welcomed four children.
Bruce's legacy continues through his loving family, including his wife of 56 years, Mary Ann; daughter Christa, her husband Rob Murphy, and their children Acacia, Katriya, Isaiah, Shamirah, Joshua, Ezra, and Micah; and son Carl, his wife Jill (Koetje) Wierks, and his children Collette, Ella, and Josiah.
Bruce is preceded in death by his daughters, Michelle and Rachel (deceased twins), and granddaughter Christianna Joy Murphy.
Bruce Wierks' life was a testament to faith, compassion, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family is grateful for the compassionate care of Holland Hospice.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 9, at 10:30 AM, at Christ Memorial Chapel, 595 Graafschap Rd, Holland, Michigan followed by a luncheon. As a fitting tribute to Bruce's dedication to helping others hear and experience the love of Jesus, the family welcomes donations to the mission work of Bruce's granddaughter Katriya, who is engaged in a one year worldwide Christian mission. Donations will directly support Katriya via the Adventures in Missions link. Donate Here