In Memoriam of the Reverend Peter Breen*
This biographical memorial article by William Langerak traces the life of Reverend Peter James Breen, born in 1919 to Dutch immigrant parents deeply committed to the Reformed faith, detailing his upbringing on a Michigan farm and family background. The piece provides historical context on early 20th-century Protestant Reformed life in West Michigan, including family values, covenant commitment, and the practical Christianity of Reformed farming communities. It serves as both a personal tribute and a window into PRCA heritage and Dutch Reformed family life during this formative period.
*The contents of this article are derived from a number of sources, including personal interviews with Rev. Breen and his wife Pauline during our many visits, the family, and especially his grandson, attorney Mr. Ben Veldkamp, to whom I am indebted. Although the year 1919 began with the nation mourning the death of Teddy Roosevelt, optimism seemed to abound. The flu pandemic that snuffed out some 30 million lives, was beginning to fade. World War I, the four-year quagmire that swallowed up...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org