HISTORY OF BETHANY HOME
Established by area churches and community leaders, Bethany Home began as a dream. Through the dedication and determination of people like Rev. John De Jong, Andrew Douma, and many other volunteers, that dream became a reality. Located in the middle of what was then an almond orchard, the primary purpose of the organization was to provide “a Christian Home for the aged and for those needing particular nursing and rest care due to infirmity or caused by illness.”
1963, Bethany Home opened its doors and began serving the needs of the elderly. The first resident … Ida Schepel … was quickly joined by dozens of other residents. The original 74-bed convalescent hospital, as it was called back then, was filled to capacity within the first year of operations. The success of its first project encouraged both the Board and the Society to consider expanding its services.
Bethany Home Original Board Members, 1963 - (l to r) John De Vries, John Vrieling, Dr. Harold De Jong, Jennie Holfman, Teeke Workman, Lena Spaman, Russell Douma, Orlinda Donker, Bert Van Dyken, John Vander Kraan, Charles Viss, and William Boersma
Under several capable administrators, the campus continued to grow. Demand for services has consistently been greater than supply. Today, over 400 residents enjoy retirement living at Bethany Home. Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Adult Day Care, and Independent Living (Apartments) are all important components of the overall care. Bethany Home is truly recognized as one of the State’s finest Multilevel Care Facilities.
Administrators:
John De Vries (1963 – 1967)
Martin Hekman (1967 – 1979)
Kenneth Hekman (1979 – 1984)
Darlene Williams (1984 – 1987)
Bruce Nikkel (1987 – 2004)
Andrew Lee (2004 – present)
