James Jacob Van Dyke Sr., husband, father, grandfather,and great-grandfather, died Saturday, Oct. 25,. He was 86. Jim was born July 6, 1939 to Peter and Margaret Van Dyke and grew up in Hopkins, where he graduated from Hopkins High School in 1957.
Jim proudly served his country as a private first class in the U.S. Army, and was stationed in Zweibrücken, Germany. After returning home, he married Carolyn Ruth (Abel) Van Dyke May 12, 1962. They shared many years together until her passing on June 16, 2001. Jim later married Ellen Davis June 5, 2004 and they shared many adventures with their blended families.
Jim was a father to James (Darcy) Van Dyke Jr., Sheryl (Simon) Hoeksma, and Dan (Andrew) Harries-Fayé. He was grandfather to Christina (Brady) Fischer, Amanda (Scott) Jantz, Alicia (Layton) Grinage, Gabriella (Tucker) Seese, Colton (Lauren) Van Dyke, Tanner (Sydney) Van Dyke, and Vivienne Harries-Fayé. He also had 13 great-grandchildren.
Jim spent much of his career working in the tool and die industry in Grand Rapids, and for several years also owned and operated an insulation business in Middleville.
Jim loved the outdoors — whether he was out hunting or spending peaceful days on his boat on Gun Lake. He appreciated the simple pleasures: a cold beer or a good glass of wine, a heartfelt conversation, and the chance to share many life stories. Jim loved to talk about his family — especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were his greatest joy.
He is survived by his wife Ellen; his children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and sisters Barbara Ulberg and Vivian Vos. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Carolyn; sisters Virginia Elson, Shirley Locklin, and Phyllis Huistra.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Corewell Health Foundation to support Hospice and Palliative Care (https://corewellhealth.org/foundation/west), in memory of James Jacob Van Dyke Sr.
Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Gun Lake Community Church, 12200 W. M-179 Highway. A funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, also at Gun Lake Community Church, followed by light refreshments and fellowship at the church.
