Rev. Louis J. Buytendorp Sr.

Rev. Louis John Buytendorp lived a long and faithful life devoted to God, family, learning, and ministry. Born January 30, 1931, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, he was the youngest of three sons born to John Francis and Nel (VanderHorst) Buytendorp, who had immigrated to the United States from The Netherlands. After high school, Louis attended barber school in Flint, Michigan, and briefly worked alongside his father. During this time, he spent many cherished hours with his beloved Aunt Alice and cousin, Jim VanderHorst. Their influence and faith helped Louis recognize his calling to ministry. In January 1950, Louis began his studies at Moody Bible Institute, earning a three-year diploma in Missions. He continued his theological education at Baptist Bible Seminary in Johnson City, New York, graduating with a Bachelor of Theology in 1958. He earned his Master of Theology from Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, in 1960. That same year, Louis was called to serve as pastor of Alsip Reformed Church in Chicago, Illinois. In 1966, he accepted a call to Community Reformed Church in Clinton, Iowa, followed by First Reformed Church in Baldwin, Wisconsin. Seven years later, in 1979, he became pastor of Trinity Reformed Church in Waupun, Wisconsin, where he faithfully served until his retirement. Louis and Joyce eventually made their home in Fond du Lac. On October 16, 1959, Louis married the love of his life, Joyce Elaine Nydam. Joyce was a compassionate and devoted nurse who spent many years caring for others. She also served for many years as administrator of The Christian Home nursing home in Waupun, Wisconsin, where her leadership and commitment to those in her care reflected the same compassion she brought to her family. Together, Louis and Joyce shared 66 years of marriage grounded in faith, love, and service. Joyce passed away in October 2025. Louis and Joyce were blessed with four children: Louis (deceased, 1998), James (JoAnn) Buytendorp, Nancy (Mark Johnson) Buytendorp, and John (Lila) Buytendorp, along with eight grandchildren: James, Joe, Jessica, Jack, Ben, Kate, Jacob, and Zachary. Louis considered his children and grandchildren among his greatest blessings and took great pride in the people they became. Louis loved preaching and public speaking and was a lifelong learner with a particular interest in theology, philosophy, history, and other subjects that encouraged thoughtful discussion. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, reading, and spending time with family. Throughout his more than three decades of ministry, Louis became known for the words he often spoke after Scripture readings: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God endures forever.” From Isaiah 40:8, those words became a signature of his ministry and a reflection of the faith that shaped his life. As Louis reflected on the passing seasons of life and the loved ones who went before him, those words carried an even deeper meaning. Though life changes and earthly relationships come to an end, the Word of God endures forever. Louis’s life was a testament to that enduring faith, and his legacy of love, service, wisdom, and devotion will continue through his family and all those whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Agnesian Health Care Foundation – Hospice Hope Fund in honor of Louis. Agnesian HealthCare Foundation Private family services will be held.

Rev. Louis J. Buytendorp Sr.

January 30, 1931 - August 30, 2026