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David Brainard Watermulder (November 16, 1920 - April 11, 2015) The Rev. Dr. David B. Watermulder died at home on Saturday April 11, 2015 after declining health in his later years, surrounded by his family. David was the youngest child of Rev. Gustav A and Hendrika Watermulder, both missionaries to Native Americans. He graduated from the University of Kansas in 1942 as student body president, and then from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1945. He later earned post graduate degrees from Princeton Seminary and Oxford University, and honorary doctoral degrees from a variety of institutions. Known primarily for being both a dynamic preacher and strong church leader, he served as Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Hightstown , NJ 1945- 1950; First Presbyterian Church of Watertown , NY 1950 - 1955; First Presbyterian Church of Oak Park, IL 1955- 1962; Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church in PA 1962 - 1986, where he was later named Pastor Emeritus. His leadership at Bryn Mawr was especially known for biblical and intellectual preaching as well as commitment to global and local mission. Three highlights that occurred during his ministry at the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church were the Weekday School, the tutoring program for inner city children, and the Timothy School for Autistic children. He was a progressive leader in social issues of his time, having participated in the March on Washington in August of 1963. Dr. Watermulder served the Presbyterian Church USA in several capacities, including chairing the Board of National Missions during the 1960's and 70’s. He represented his denomination at the World Council of Churches in 1968 in Uppsala, Sweden, and served on the boards of numerous church related colleges, hospital, seminaries, and missions. Princeton Seminary ranked as his prime interest beyond serving the local church. He was a Trustee of Princeton from 1958 until becoming Trustee Emeritus in 1996. He chaired their Board on different occasions, and led the seminary in the building of two of its central buildings, as well as giving particular leadership to the presidencies of Drs. James McCord and Thomas Gillespie. Rev. Watermulder is survived by his wife of 68 years, Ruth (nee Gullyes) and their three children: Paul (Genie), Peter (Chris), and Martha. Grandchildren Rebecca Bales (Andrew), David (Lisa), Sarah, Timothy, Jonathan, Jennifer. Great grandchildren: Abigail, Isaiah, and Theodore. He is preceded in death by great grandson Mateo Watermulder. His Memorial Service will be held in the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Ave., Bryn Mawr PA 19010 on Friday, April 17 at 2 PM. Memorial gifts may be forwarded to the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church or to Princeton Theological Seminary.

Tributes

The Reverend Dr. David B. Watermulder

November 16, 1920 - April 11, 2015