Lester and Gladys DeVries Family

In celebration of their parents’ 55th wedding anniversary, the children of Lester and Gladys DeVries have established this scholarship. Christian schools and education have been an important part of their family life starting with their grandfather, Cornelius VanBeek, who was the first principal of Illiana Christian High School. Les and Gladys met while both attending Illiana. After graduation from Calvin College, Les taught at Highland Christian School and eventually became the principal at North Christian School in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He served there for over 30 years. Gladys had a teaching certificate from Calvin College and used it in support of Les’ career and in raising five children who all attended the Kalamazoo Christian Schools. This legacy continues as their grandchildren attend Kalamazoo Christian Schools and many of them have continued on to Calvin College.

Lester and Gladys’ constant encouragement and support of each member in the immediate and extended family has helped them to find their place in the world and taught them by example to use their gifts for Christian service. It is the family’s hope that this scholarship at Calvin College will assist others to do the same and contribute to future generations being faithful.