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Submitted: 5/21/23 • Approved: 5/22/23 • Last Updated: 5/25/23 • R275067-G275067-S3
Vernon Dykstra
January 31, 1934 - August 26, 2022
Our dad and husband, Vernon Dykstra, 88, slipped peacefully into God’s arms from COPD on 8/26/22 in the early morning. Our family was so incredibly grateful to be his at-home hospice support for three weeks.
Dad was born in January 31, 1934, to Charlie and Pearl (VanDrongelen) Dykstra in Stickney, SD. He had 2 brothers, Erwin and Merlyn. Growing up, farming was the priority. Alongside his dad and brother, they worked long, hard hours. Yet, dad said he was always a momma’s boy and liked to help her in the kitchen. Dad was a wonderful cook thanks to his time with her. Dad did recall his mom not being very happy with him when she found frogs in his jean pockets when doing the laundry.
Vern joined the army in 1954. Dad said the farming muscles made the basic training a breeze for him. While in the service, he married the love of his life Frances Greenaway. Fran joined him in Virginia while he was still in the service. He was discharged from the army in 1956. At that point, he perused farming for a couple years then moved to Sioux Falls, SD. He made his career starting with Pepsi and then moved on to Prudential Insurance for 30 years, then an additional 6 years at Home Federal in the financial investment department. We all recognize the long hours he put in for our family to allow mom to stay home with their 4 kids. Dad spent a great deal of time traveling for his job so our weekends with him were treasured.
He enjoyed traveling, carving, reading, and spending time with his family. Retirement years traveling with mom to FL and AZ were full of new adventures. Having coffee with his special buddies was always a highlight of his day.
Dad was wise beyond words. He would not share his opinion unless asked. When asked, he provided us all with very sound judgement and helped to keep us strong. It wouldn’t be uncommon for dad to tell us to “get over it” because life is too short to dwell on concerns. Even the grandkids appreciated the advice he provided them and that he was never judgmental. We all could simply be “real” around him which made it wonderful to be around him.
Vern is survived by his wife Fran of 67 years. Son, Dwight (Kathy) of Orlando, FL., Debra (Mike) Heiter, Sioux Falls, Glenda (Ron) Wieckert, Broken Arrow, OK, Patti (Brian) Moberly, Sioux Falls. He had eight grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by Charlie and Pearl Dykstra, and his brothers Erwin and Merlin.
We would like to suggest that in lieu of flowers, memorials be sent to the First Reformed Church, 4800 S. Tomar Road, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 57108. The staff at First Reformed will allocate the donations in the most thoughtful and giving manner.
Vernon's funeral service will take place at First Reformed Church, 4800 S Tomar Rd, Sioux Falls, SD, on Friday, September 2, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. Family will be present one hour prior for visitation. Vern's family invite you to lunch following the service before burial at Woodlawn Cemetery. Vern's service will also be available virtually by using the link listed below.
Section Cherry - Plot 271
Contributed on 5/21/23 by 9katz
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Record #: 275067