It is with great sadness that we, the board and staff of Shalem, say goodbye to Sidney Harkema. Sid passed away peacefully on February 20, 2022, at the age of 92.
Sid joined the Shalem Board in 2004 and served faithfully for six years. He then continued as a deeply engaged supporter of Shalem right up until his death. Sid was a visionary, encouraging our board to dream big dreams, because we serve a big God. He helped to birth our Congregational Assistance Plan program as well as our Clergy Care program. He was very generous with his support and friendship over the years, and the growth and trajectory of Shalem since 2004 is inconceivable without his active encouragement and support.
We extend our deepest condolences to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and we celebrate and give thanks to God for such a friend as Sid–a powerful witness to the Gospel and its implications for mental health.