Thomas Dykema, age 74, passed away on January 9 following a battle with ALS. He was surrounded by family and is now with his Lord in perfect peace. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7
Tom was born in Holland, Michigan to Claude and Johanna (Duits) Dykema on April 5, 1946. Tom attended Holland Christian High School where he was class president and excelled in sports, especially basketball. He went on to Calvin College where he played basketball and earned his bachelor’s degree in secondary education in 1968. He earned his master’s degree from Western University. Tom was blessed with a position at South Christian High School following graduation where he used his talents to teach, coach, and lead. One of his greatest joys was working with young people. During his 43 years at South Christian High School, Tom taught physical education and math, was the athletic director for 28 years, and was the varsity boys basketball coach for 25 years, winning the state championship title in 1988. He was inducted into the BCAM Coaches Hall of Fame in 2012. Tom’s strong faith in God and passion for his students, players, and colleagues were evident to all who met him.
Tom is survived by his loving and treasured wife of 51 years, Joan (Tubergen). He also leaves behind his two children Jill (Fred) Britton and Beth (Joel) Brown; and three grandchildren Matt Britton, Helen and Joel (JT) Brown, all of whom will miss his love, guidance, and support. He is also survived by his sisters Nancy Karsten and Helen Sanders; brother- and sister-in-law Terry and Mary Nienhuis; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank all their friends who faithfully visited and supported Tom with prayers and the Hillside Community Church family for all their love, support, and prayers.
His family plans to hold a faith-filled private service. In honor of Tom and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his name to South Christian High School, 7979 Kalamazoo Ave. Byron Center, MI 49315 (schs.org).
The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresbyron.com.
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