Craig Van Dyke

A well known figure in the Holland community, Craig Van Dyke had several indelible traits; his warm hugs, trademark wink, and an extra gleam as he shared stories of his family and grandchild. It was hard to miss the extraordinary love he had for his family, especially for his granddaughter who was the apple of his eye.

Craig was born on March 11, 1947 in Holland, Michigan, as the oldest of four boys in his family. He was raised on the north side of Holland and attended a one-room schoolhouse just up the road from his home. While growing up, Craig developed a love for sports, playing football, basketball, and baseball. He graduated from West Ottawa High School in 1965 and then continued his education at both Davenport University and Grand Valley State University. Craig worked at Superior Sports Store of Holland for 17 years and later worked at Bradford Company as a customer service representative for 22 years.

As a young man, Craig valiantly served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War from 1967 through 1970 and returned home from his voluntary service as a decorated veteran. Upon his homecoming, Craig initiated with Paula - the love of his life - an adventure of a lifetime, filling it with laughter, excitement and love for over 40 years. From their union the two were blessed with three children; Gretchen, Landon, and Megan.

The eminent Cornerstone in Craig’s life was his deep love for his family. He spent most of his free time participating in his family’s activities. From coaching girls’ soccer and boys’ softball, to supporting his daughters’ cheerleading events, Craig was ever present in his children’s lives and always their number one fan. He loved going to Disney World with his family and also spending time camping all over Michigan. Very much enjoying the outdoors, Craig spent countless summer nights sharing laughs with his family around a campfire, and later with Paula, establishing a very special getaway at Sandy Pines. A gifted woodworker, Craig shared his skills with his family by crafting artwork made from the heart, such as a crib for his granddaughter made of solid oak. Craig treasured being a grandfather, and he even taught his granddaughter how to wink!

Craig was actively involved in his community. He was a long time referee in the Holland area for recreational leagues, high school, and local college sporting activities. Craig was heavily involved with Tulip Time for over 30 years serving as Parade Chairman and on the Board of Directors. He was also a member of Fellowship Reformed Church, and a former member of the Holland American Legion Post #6.

Over the years, Craig enjoyed a variety of interests – though always an avid Michigan State fan through and through. Watching a game with Craig was surely different since most of his comments were usually from the referee’s perspective. Always active, Craig was on several golfing and bowling leagues, loved to cook, and enjoyed traveling and cruising together with Paula. He also treasured his faithful dog, Sparty.

Craig Van Dyke, a devoted husband and father, was a strong, witty, and passionate man with a tender heart. The wisdom, dedication and caring that he conveyed in all corners of his life are testament to the man he was and whom we will all remember and love. His greatest legacy is his family, to whom he remained faithful, nurtured and cherished. He will be greatly missed.

Craig John Van Dyke died on Tuesday March 23, 2010. Craig’s family includes his wife, Paula; children, Gretchen (Buckley) Brockmann of Winterville, NC, Landon C. Van Dyke of Arlington, VA, and Megan Van Dyke of Orlando, FL; granddaughter Molly Brockmann; mother, June Van Dyke; brothers: Doug (Mary) Van Dyke, Ron (Marlene) Van Dyke, Scott (Nancy) Van Dyke; mother-in-law Lois Mitchell; brother-in-law Darryl and Rosemary (Rosemary) Mitchell; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, March 26, 2010 at Fellowship Reformed Church 300 North 168th Street Holland, MI. A memorial time of visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. following the service Friday at Fellowship Reformed Church. Arrangements by Dykstra Life Story Funeral Homes – Northwood Chapel – Holland, MI. Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a memory or make a memorial contribution to Hospice of Holland or Fellowship Reformed Church.