Memorial Service
Life Story Book
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David Storey Van Dyke, age 90, born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Bernard W. and Lila Van Dyke, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Friday, January 22, 2021, surrounded by his loving family at home.
David is survived by his wife, Anne, of 70 years, along with his five children Barbara (Bill) Watson, Carol (Ray) Befus, David (Lynn) Van Dyke, Timothy (Sandy) Van Dyke, and Jan (Cory) Van Bruggen. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren: Lisa (Shaffin) Henderson, Jared (Amy) Watson, Lauren Watson, Michael (Lauren) Befus, Laura (Matt) Gravelle, Heather (Adam) Tichelaar, Kristin (Matt) Scheider, Tara (AJ) Eckert, Jason (Kellie) Van Dyke, Tyler (Brittany) Van Dyke, Jacob (Lindsey) Van Dyke, Holly Van Dyke, Spencer Van Dyke, Andy Van Bruggen, Mark Van Bruggen; and 31 great-grandchildren. David is also survived by his sister, Martha Douglas, a sister-in-law, Joyce Van Dyke, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Wilma Van Dyke, brother, Philip Van Dyke, brother-in-law, James Douglas, and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robert and Margaret Bruggema.
David was a fireman for the city of Grand Rapids for many years, until he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and make building and developing his full-time career. We will greatly miss his encouraging words, unique sense of humor, photographic memory, and cheerful spirit.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made in care of Vineyard North Church to be divided among the many worldwide ministries that David supported.
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.” Matthew 25:21.
The Making of a Book
Memory Lane Jane began 10 years ago when David Van Dyke (my husband’s grandfather) said, “I want to tell my story but I don’t know how.” Neither Grandpa nor I had any idea what we were doing, but we set out on a two-year journey of fulfilling his dream. We had so many laughs and hiccups along the way, but in the end, we created a family heirloom that will last forever. Now that he is gone, Grandpa’s book is now more precious to me and our family than ever before.
One thought on “David Storey Van Dyke”
I’m am glad to share in this celebration of a life very well lived!! I’ll never forget Dave. A friend of my father and an influence in my life. Watching them living their lives for our Lord and Savoir, not perfectly but very well!! Such a great example of a Christ like man.