Birth date: Dec 27, 1933 Death date: Aug 16, 2017
Known as a man who was trustworthy and faithful, John Van Dyke, Jr. went home to be with his Lord on Wednesday August 16, 2017. Husband to his beloved wife of 60 years, Janice (Schutter) and the proud father of five daughters. Jo Read Obituary
John Van Dyke was an incredible man. He worked harder than anyone I've ever known and did it with laughter and joy. He was strong as an ox with hands like rocks yet gentle and kind. He taught me what work meant. Courageous yet the most humble man I've ever known. Without him Bair Lake would not be. An amazing example of a loving father and husband. His family is fortunate indeed.
Sorry April and I couldn't make it. John was my Sunday school teacher. Mark Keift , Paul Deweese and myself were so bad he walk out on us. Also worked with him at Bair lake on many different projects. Old miniature golf course, dining hall and Sunrise. The one thing I remember was when he and Dave Tompkins and others work on putting a roof on grain binds over at Verplanks at least 3 stories up.
He was definitely a Man of God and was a good example of it
So sorry to her about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. I remember hearing about your first date with John the night before a Thanksgiving Conference many, many years ago. How fast time flies. Seeing the names of all your siblings also brought back many memories of years gone by. It was good to see you at the class reunion. Condolences, Lois Kleyn Donaldson.
I remember cousin Johnny driving to Grand Rapids to pick me up to spend a week with Aunt Fran in Grand Haven when I was a little girl. I remember standing next to him in the front seat (no seat belts in those days) as we crossed the Bridges from Spring Lake leading into Grand Haven. Like his father John Sr. he loved his home town. During that week I was required to memorize a chapter of the Bible. One year Aunt Fran took me to the Pell's shoe shop in Spring Lake where she bought me a pair of shoes. Little did I know that the man who sold us those shoes would someday become my father-in-law. Cousin Johnny was always dependable and honored his father and mother. He was faithful in attending the meetings of the Church along with his entire family and sought to raise his children in the "fear and training of the Lord." Those who have been left behind serve as a testimony to his faithfulness.
Janet (Smith) Pell
Jan and Family, Please accept our deep sympathy for the loss of your wonderful husband, father and grandfather. John was our "go to guy" when it came to anything that required creative problem solving and a hammer. While renovating our entire house and restoring it after a basement flood, we heard wonderful stories about all of you. He was so proud of you all! As you go through life, you meet many people. John was one the Best! Most Sincerely, Mitzi and George Fazzola
John was a man of God. May God comfort Jan and family. Blessings and prayers♥️
Marie Harder / Gospel Chapel
Although much older than me, I will always remember his laugh and gentle spirit. I was able to visit with Johnny at my brother's funeral 2 years ago. We had not seen each other for over 50+ years. I immediately recognized him and gave him a big hug. He looked startled, shook my hand and walked away. I didn't realize he had no idea who I was. Some 2 minutes later he ran up to me, returned my hug and I got to hear his hearty laugh one more time.
My condolences and love to his entire family
Bert Smith
On behalf of your 1954 and 1955 MHS Classmates, we wish to extend our deepest condolences to you and your family. Our love and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Jeanne Nelson-Maycroft
Dear Mrs. VanDyke, Lori, Shari, Nanci, Tami, Marci and families,
I am so sorry for your great loss. I know that although you miss him terribly, you wouldn't wish him back from the mansion God built for him. I have fond memories of many years growing up together on Echo Court. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Karen (Van Oordt) Kubczak
