.jpg)
Gareth S. Kok was born on August 29, 1903, at Twin Oaks Farm near Randolph, Wisconsin, the eldest of nine children. Initially destined to be a dairy farmer like his father, a pivotal conversation with his local minister, Dominie Bajema, set him on a new path. At age 14, he left the farm to attend Calvin Preparatory School in Michigan.
His educational journey was marked by resilience and independence. Following a difficult year at Calvin, he moved to Grundy College in Iowa, where he spent six years earning both his high school and college degrees. He eventually returned to Calvin, where he overcame initial resistance to his qualifications and successfully graduated from the Seminary in 1930.
Throughout his early development, Gareth was characterized by a deep love of reading and a humble, hardworking nature. Although he was plagued by apprehension and doubt regarding his suitability for the ministry during his studies, he excelled in his examinations, earning high praise from his professors. He would go on to become the first seminarian to travel to a preaching assignment by airplane.
For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. (1 Thessalonians 4:14)
Modern-Day Example
Just as Gareth felt apprehension about his calling and doubted if he was "cut out" for the ministry, a modern-day student might feel intense anxiety and "imposter syndrome" before their first major public presentation or job interview. However, by trusting in the preparation they have put in and seeking guidance, they often find that they are more capable than they feared—much like Gareth, who went on to be lauded by his professors after nearly skipping his own oral exams.
Ministry and Family Life
After graduating from Seminary in 1930, Gareth's faith was put to the test. He decided to "put out a fleece"—a biblical reference to asking for a sign—by stipulating that if He truly wanted him to be a regular preacher, a church would need to extend a formal call to him immediately. On July 1, the very first day ministerial candidates were eligible, he received a call from a congregation in Hills, Minnesota. This began a forty-year ministry during which he led six different churches.
Gareth's ministry was characterized by a unique balance of rigorous theological leadership and deep, hands-on devotion to his family. After the tragic loss of his first wife, Kathryn, in 1951, he was left as a widowed father of five. He later married Ada Timmer, a widow who also had five children. Together, they raised their family of ten with faith and resilience.
A Legacy of Love and Nature
His children recall him as a "miracle worker" who, through careful management and God’s blessing, ensured their large family was always provided for, despite dedicating a significant portion of his salary to Christian school tuition. Gareth was a man who embraced life with joy:
Love of Nature: He was an avid outdoorsman, mountain climber, and camper who taught his children about the wonders of God through creation, identifying rocks, mountains, and animals with ease.
Integrity and Humility: He was known for his support of his spouse, his deep affection for his children, and his gentle way with animals, including his dog, Laddie, and his cat, Scampi.
Progressive Spirit: In an era where movies were often frowned upon in his circles, he used projectors to show educational films to his children and their friends, always seeking to teach them about the greatness of God.
Throughout his life, Gareth remained a man of humble service, deeply loved by his family and the congregations he shepherded. He remained a source of profound strength, known for his work ethic, his kindness, and his unwavering trust that the Lord would always provide for his family.
And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. (Isaiah 58:11)
Modern-Day Example
Just as Gareth trusted that God would provide for his large family of ten children through prayer and diligent management, a modern-day family facing unexpected financial hardship might practice "stewardship" by creating a strict household budget, choosing to prioritize essential needs, and finding creative ways to provide healthy, homemade meals. Like Gareth, they trust that while their resources might feel limited, their faith and unity as a family will sustain them through the season of drought.
