Gregg (Roger Gregg Harry) Hielema, born March 19, 1972, in Woodstock, Ontario, Canada, passed into the arms of his Savior on March 26, 2019, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Bancroft, Wisconsin.
Devoted husband of Heather (Zuidervaart), proud father of Noah (fiancée Alayna), Joel, and Joshua, brother to Brenda (Paul) Bruinooge and Crystle (David) Numan, son of Henrietta Hielema, and Harry (Sharon) Hielema, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew and cousin to large extended families.
Gregg was raised and schooled in Canada. He and Heather were married in 1992 and then called to Mitchell, SD in 1996 to work at a church as Youth Pastor. Following his time there, he was employed in the phone industry, which eventually led to his transfer and subsequent move to Wisconsin, where he has resided with his family for the past 9 years.
His influence for Christ was immense. His spiritual gifts of patience, articulation and wordsmithing were very evident in his mentoring of so many of all ages. His leadership in every place he worked was appreciated. His natural abilities were astounding in the areas of mechanical, house renovations and building, athletics, education, parenting, theology, counselling, and Bible study. His valiant fight against an aggressive cancer, with various treatments, will add to cancer research.
In life and in death, Gregg helped others. His CaringBridge blog outlined his cancer journey and his deepening relationship with God, influencing many. "God is faithful, He is doing amazing things," is what Gregg stated. Anyone who met and interacted with him heard his life precepts to "Cherish each moment", "Invest in relationships," and "Care deeply for others." He repeatedly emphasized "Carpe Momentus, Carpe Momento," or "Seize the Moments" and "Cherish the Memories".
A celebration of life will be held at Woodlands Church, Plover WI, at 4pm, on March 31st. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Woodlands Church, or Cru.org.
Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HonorOne.com