John James Dykeman

John James Dykeman, of Sandwich, Massachusetts, passed away August 31, surrounded by family and love. Born in Hyannis on March 7, 2002, John spent his entire life in Sandwich, where he attended Sandwich Public Schools and built lasting connections with his friends, teachers, and community.

At an early age, John was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a muscle-wasting disorder that required him to use a wheelchair for the last decade of his life. Despite the daily challenges he faced, John’s spirit was never defined by his condition. He was funny, adventurous, brave, sweet (and sometimes a little sour). He loved the water, sports, music, and movies, and his joy for life left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

John’s extended family brought endless love and joy to his life. His uncle, Eric Dykeman, aunt, Kim Kianidehkian, cousins Alyssa and Lucas (and wife Annie), and his Nana, Marion Easterbrooks, made every summer, Christmas, and birthday memorable. They centered their lives and vacations around John and our family. Also his great aunts from New York who never missed the chance to acknowledge special days with love from afar. Their love, kindness, and dedication gave John a rich and happy life. Favorite family memories include swimming at Spectacle Pond and Mayflower Beach, New Hampshire vacations with family friends, and the annual trek to the Beachcomber.

John’s family is deeply grateful to the many people who made his journey brighter. To his friends who never hesitated to include “the kid in the wheelchair,” to the teachers who accommodated his needs, and to his brother’s friends who welcomed him into their games—thank you. A special note of gratitude goes to Pete Bengston and Terrence Murphy for making John an honorary member of his brother’s sports teams, a highlight of his life. His high school aide, Dan Dunn, and nurse, Kathy Grant, made his school days manageable, while his home health aide, Mickey Stafford, provided care with compassion and patience.

John is survived by his loving brother and sister, Will and Anna Dykeman, and his devoted parents, James and Sherill Dykeman. He was the light, love, and driving force of his family, and his courage, humor, and tenacity taught all who knew him what it means to live fully and bravely.

Though time was his greatest challenge, John faced it with strength and grace. His family takes comfort knowing he has been spared further hardship and that he won his race against the clock. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and gratitude.

Visiting hours will be held Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, 154 Route 6A, Sandwich, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Massachusetts based JB’s Keys to DMD at jbskeys.org or the Make-a-Wish foundation.