On April 11, 2020, the Redeemer community lost a passionate advocate for reformed Christian university education in Bill Voortman. After he and his family came to Canada from the Netherlands, Bill and his brother Harry co-founded Voortman Cookies in Hamilton in 1951. The success of their business allowed Bill Voortman to leave a legacy of generosity.

“Bill was a friend and supporter of Redeemer from its inception, along with many other Kingdom causes. He went beyond being a generous donor by challenging others he knew to join in a growing movement of philanthropy and stewardship for Redeemer and all the other ministries that appealed to his sense of vision and service,” says President Emeritus Dr. Justin Cooper.

Nothing gave him more joy than to see these ministries grow and flourish to the glory of God.

“His personable nature and infectious enthusiasm touched the lives of many others, including those less fortunate,” Cooper added. “And nothing gave him more joy than to see these ministries grow and flourish to the glory of God. It was a great privilege to know and work with such a humble and genuine child of the Lord.”

The impact Voortman has had on Redeemer’s mission to develop tomorrow’s Christian leaders will continue to resound for many years to come.

“God blessed the work and life of Bill Voortman. As a faithful steward of God’s gifts and blessings, Bill blessed many others, including Redeemer University,” says current President Dr. Robert Graham. “We are grateful for Bill Voortman, his humble example of service, and his legacy of support for the work of Redeemer University and other organizations.”

Redeemer extends its sincere condolences to family and friends.