Clarence F. Dykema, Jr.'s Obituary
Mr. Clarence Fredrick Dykema Jr., age 72, passed away Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at his home in Muskegon, Michigan. Clarence, known to his friends as Paul, was born to Clarence Sr. and Arlene (Colby) Dykema. Clarence was employed as an electrician and machine builder for over 35 years, prior to his retirement from the aircraft manufacturing industry. He was a lover of history and his family, and a lifelong gardener, a skill that he learned from his parents. He could be found on most days tending to his flowers and vegetables, much of which he would preserve to enjoy year-round. Besides tending to his garden, his other great joy was spending time in nature. Clarence was an avid fisherman, hunter, and outdoorsman. He spent many of his happiest days in the Ward Hills, near Branch Township, originally hunting with his father and later continuing that tradition with friends. In his younger years, he took his vacation time from work in the summer, when he’d bring his boys annually to the Upper Peninsula, a place that he loved deeply. Clarence was a quiet and independent man who found solace in the wonder of the natural world. He lived most of his adult life in the Nims Neighborhood of Muskegon and was a good neighbor to many. When asked how Clarence wished to be remembered, he shared, “that I made the world a little bit better place”. Clarence is survived by his children, Jacob (Beth) Dykema, Simon (September) Dykema, Caleb (Cindy Beth) Davis-Dykema; three grandchildren, Rylan Dykema, Malloy and Freya Davis-Dykema; sisters Shirley (Bruce) Haase and Linda Dykema. He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence Dykema Sr. and Arlene (Colby) Dykema, whom he missed dearly, as well as his brother, Robert W. Dykema and twin sisters, Marilyn and Carolyn. A celebration of life and memorial will be held in the Summer of 2024. Arrangements have been entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442.
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