Melvin “Mel” Dykstra

DYKSTRA – Melvin “Mel” Dykstra, aged 83 of Comstock Park, was transported to his heavenly home on Tuesday, August 4, 2015. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Phyllis; their children, Mike and Rose, Laurie, David, Robin and Billy Graham; grandchildren, Nate, Katie, Joy, Chris, Erin, Sam; one great-grandchild, Elijah; and a foster dad to many; sister, Jean and Warren Stob; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Kathy Dykstra, Sherman and Judy VanSolkema, Patricia and Ralph Brigance, and Diane Denslow. Mel was a long time owner of Dykstra Elevator in Conklin. A Memorial Service for Mel will be held on Friday at 11:00 am at Calvary Church, 777 East Beltline NE with Pastor Aaron Bolduc officiating. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Chapel (Kentwood), 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE on Thursday from 5-8 pm. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to Calvary Missions.

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August 10, 2015

Mel was a very special man, and one we regarded as an example of what a Christian man should be. I always appreciated his willingness to help in the MOPS program. He was an inspiration to all of those who worked with him, and was always able to get a smile out of a crying child. He will be greatly missed by all who spent time with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

- Dick and Linda Antonini

August 10, 2015

Dear Dykstra Family & Extended Family, My parents, Dalvin & Ethel Smith, and family send our deepest sympathies to you all in the loss of Mel. We are so glad that we had a chance to meet him and his lovely wife at the wedding of James and Joy Downey. Praying for comfort and peace for all.... The Smiths, Delmantos, and McCleerys

- Cindy Delmanto

August 06, 2015

Going to miss him as I know others will. A fair and just business man as well as good friend to many in the farming community that he served for so many years. My sympathies to his big family. From his friends at Robach Farms!

- Bruce Robach

August 05, 2015

We always knew we could count on Uncle Mel and Aunt Phyl to be there as we had family events throughout the years. I have great memories of Big Star Lake, small plane rides and getting my stitches out because Uncle Mel was an "MD". I will miss his laugh and genuine love for all of us. Aunt Phyl and cousins, you are in my prayers, love you all!

- Michelle Garigen

August 05, 2015

I was also so lucky to call him dad. His faith and patience with those of us who were hurting were truly a gift from God. I still remember the first day I arrived at their home. I was so fearful and he calmly allowed me to roam the property and took every moment he could to show me how kind a father could be. He loved unconditionally and always directed me back to God the Father and how he loves us no matter what. It was the first time in my life I lived in a home that truly served The Lord and he was a great example of how a father leads his family in the ways of The Lord. You will be missed Dad Dykstra but I can't wait to reunite with you in heaven1

- Tammy VanBockern

August 05, 2015

I only had the privelage of knowing this man through his selfless love for Others. I never saw him face to face, or shook his hand. I have no idea what his voice or his laughter sounded like. What I saw and heard was from some of the kids he was a foster Dad too. He gave them unconditional love and guidance. When they spoke of him, I could see the love of Christ, put into action. I'm sure he will be missed by many, but has already been welcomed by Christ. Our prayers are with his family and those who loved and cherished him. What an honor to know him, even if I never met him in person.

- Tony and Pam Teunissen

August 05, 2015

We just saw you a few months ago! It's hard to process that you're not here anymore, Uncle Mel! But we can rest in the fact that you are in the most beautiful place your soul could ever desire.

- Lindsay Lott

August 05, 2015

My heart and my eyes are in tears for a man I can proudly call my dad, I will greatly miss you.

- Edward McGregor

August 05, 2015

A wonderful, Godly man who will be greatly missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

- Randy and Becky Quimby

August 05, 2015

Our love and thoughts are with you and the family at this time of sorrow. Wishing we could be there. Prayers for all.

- Clarence and Denise Kraft