John Timmer

John J. Timmer, age 95, died on October 22, 2020.  Surviving are his four children Gregory G. (Marybeth) Timmer, Stephen  J. (Paul) Timmer, Amy E. Wormmeester, and John W. Timmer as well as five grandchildren, William Timmer, James Timmer, David Timmer, Katherine Wormmeester, and Michael Wormmeester, all of Grand Rapids.  He is also survived by a brother, Ivan J. (Marcia) Timmer and sister-in-law Diane (Dale) Wagner as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn, his parents John and Ida Timmer, brothers Matthew, Edwin, Peter and James Timmer, and sisters Grace Vandersloot, Sarah Ritsema, Margaret Timmer and Esther (Ackerman) Doezema.  He was one of five brothers to serve their country in World War II.  A sixth brother, Ivan, served in Korea during the Korean conflict.

John was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan and following his graduation from Grand Rapids Christian High School, entered the military service.  He served in the 82nd Airborne Division in Europe during World War II.  After the war, he graduated from Calvin College and the University of Michigan Law School.  He practiced law in Grand Rapids for more than 50 years as a member of the law firm of Allaben, Massie, Vander Weyden and Timmer.  He was a Life Fellow of the Michigan State Bar Foundation. He was also a Registered Land Surveyor by the Board of Architects, Engineers and Land Surveyors.

He was a long-time member of Central Reformed Church where he served as Elder.  He was a member of a number of boards including the Cran Hill Ranch Board where he served as president and the SLD Read Board.  His high school yearbook described him as “quietly efficient” and valuing “worth rather than show.”  These early remarks proved accurate, and he valued humble, obedient service to his Lord, loving devotion to family and friends, and dedicated service to his clients and profession.

Due to Covid, an immediate family only memorial will take place.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Kathy Timmer Specialized Language Development Learning Center Memorial Fund www.grfoundation.org.

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