Henry Paul Colenbrander

(1924-2017)

He served in the US Navy during World War II. When he returned from duty he completed his college degree and became a teacher and coach at Northwestern College in Orange City IA. He later continued as football and basketball coach. In 12 years of coaching basketball his squads won more than 200 games and captured three state championships. His 11 years as football coach were highlighted by a 15-game winning streak from 1953 to 1954. In 1963, he moved his family to Holland MI to attend Western Seminary. During this time he officiated many games in local high schools. After his graduation he served as pastor of Maplewood Reformed Church for 12 years. Following his retirement from the ministry he continued until the age of 88 to preach and lead church services in many area churches. During this time he also built 36 houses in the Holland area.