Dr. Edwin Roels

Surrounded by his family, Dr. Edwin Roels of Grand Rapids went to his heavenly home on February 20, 2026, at the age of 92. Devoted husband for 70 years to Bertie (Klamer); dear dad of Dawn (John) Kaptein, Rick, Karen (Bruce) Andres, Dale (Cheryl), and Cheryl Guikema; loving grandpa of 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brothers, Jason and Paul, and sister, Delia (Jonker).

Ed’s life of service included teaching and administrative roles at Calvin, Trinity, and Reformed Bible (now Kuyper) Colleges; church pastorates in South Holland, Illinois and Prinsburg, Minnesota; and overseas involvements as director of a serviceman’s home in Seoul, Korea and coordinator of the African division of the World Home Bible League.

A lifelong passion of ministering through his writings continued into Ed’s retirement, during which time he wrote Bible study courses and evangelistic materials for various organizations both in the States and overseas. He also felt honored to serve as a prison chaplain and taught in seminaries in India and Myanmar.

Dr. Roels will be remembered as an incredible man of integrity who walked humbly with his Lord. He had a tender, compassionate heart and took delight in his work and the people in his life, attesting to the greatness, grace, and glory of God.

His final years were spent in the faithful and loving care of his family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him. Dr. Roels was a truly remarkable man who ran his race well and will be welcomed home with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Rev. Joy Bonnema officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Friday, March 6, from 5-7 pm at the funeral home, and on Saturday from 10-11 am prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Grand Rapids Right to Life or Right to Life of Michigan.