Louis "Lou" Spyke's Obituary
Born in Muskegon on January 24th 1929 to Siert and Winifred Buikema Spyke. He was the youngest of 5 children, 3 sisters Betty, Mildred, Louise and brother William. The Spyke family was a close family with weekly home dinners together and many great gatherings with one another. At the age of 17 Lou dropped out of school to join the army. He did go back to school later to earn his diploma. He had many great stories about his time in the service and we still have some great photos to share. He returned home and began working at Shaw Walker where he stayed employed for 43 years. In 1948 Lou married Delores Cole and together they had two (2) sons Thomas and David. Delores was the love of his life and dance partner. Together they danced a wonderful life together and shared great times with their many friends and family.
Lou was an avid sportsman, fan and family man. Lou played football while in the army, and he was an excellent baseball player in the city leagues. He coached football and baseball during his sons younger years. He enjoyed hunting of all types with his father, father-in-law and his sons. Fishing on small creeks with his father-in-law and friends was something he loved.
Lou was very close to his sisters and spent many Sunday evenings with them throughout their entire lives. Lou is the last of the siblings to pass.
Lou became a widow in his 70’s and several years later while relaxing at the Vikings met another great dancer and special friend “Winkie.” But Lou had an entire special family at the Muskegon Vikings. His love and devotion for the Vikings was his entire life for the past 20 plus years. His family can not thank the great friends from the Vikings that have made Lou’s life so special for him, his sister and our entire family. Thank you, and thank everyone for making his lifetime well spent!
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Viking’s at a later announced date and time. Memorial Contributions in Lou’s name to the Viking’s Burn Camp Fund will be appreciated. Share memories with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd. Muskegon, MI 49441 (231) 759-8565.
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