James "Jim" M. Van Dyke's Obituary
James “Jim” Monte Van Dyke, age 81, of Grand Haven, passed away on May 1, 2026,
surrounded by the love of family and the faith that guided his life.
Jim was a man whose presence made people feel at ease. He will be remembered for his compassion, deep faith, gentleness, humor, and patience. He had an artistic flair, a love for order (with a distinctly Dutch focus on cleanliness), and an appreciation for new experiences that led to travel in later years with his wife and dear friends.
Rooted his entire life in the lakeshore town he called home, Jim invested deeply in the people and community of Grand Haven. In his work as a funeral director and business leader, he served others with integrity. He was a co-founder of Hospice of North Ottawa Community, helping families receive compassionate care at the end of life. An active member and past president of the Grand Haven Rotary Club, Jim championed clean water initiatives that brought safe water to communities in Honduras and the Dominican Republic.
Yet of all the roles Jim held, his deepest identity was as a child of God and a committed follower of Jesus Christ. His faith was steady, sincere, and central to the way he lived. His service and love for others flowed out of deep gratitude for all God had done for him.
Jim was the devoted husband of Sharon Van Dyke, with whom he shared nearly 60 wonderful years of marriage beginning in August 1966. Together they built a life marked by generosity, faithfulness, hospitality, laughter, and enduring love.
He was a loving father to David (Tara) Van Dyke and Nathan Van Dyke, and to his daughter Kimberly, who preceded him in death. Jim treasured his grandchildren Jacob (Rachel), Zach (Abigail), Ryan, and Annika, and was delighted to become great-grandfather to Florence.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Fran Van Dyke; his brother, John Van Dyke; and his daughter, Kimberly.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Avenue, Grand Haven, Michigan.
A celebration of life service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 7, at Covenant Life Church, 101 Columbus Avenue, Grand Haven, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, Jim’s family requests memorial donations be made to ministries close to his heart: Bair Lake Bible Camp in Jones, MI or the work of Jillann DV working with refugees in the Middle East at https://crossworld.org/, give to account #40263 (or send contributions to Covenant Life Church).
Share memories of Jim with the family online at https://www.SytsemaFH.com.
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