Robert Van Dyke
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Robert "Bob" Van Dyke was always with his Lord; his Christian faith touched all he did, from his work as a civil engineer in Grand Rapids to his dedicated involvement in the renovation of Community Presbyterian Church in Pinehurst, NC. He left this earth to go to heaven on August 9 at the age of 88.
Bob loved a building project to create something for others to enjoy, while forming lasting friendships. He managed and supervised large projects for Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., Daverman Assoc., Amway and Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr and Huber. He raised his family in Grand Rapids and spent time, riding motor cycles, golfing, track/skeet shooting, duck and bow hunting with his brother, Ron. With Sheila, his wife of 30 years, he retired to FL then NC. They enjoyed active retirement, dancing, power boating the Great Lakes, Canada and Florida, river canoeing, ice fishing, sledding, biking, motor cycling, golfing, gardening, bird feeding, going on cruises, doing home projects, giving dinner parties, gathering with family and friends, playing games, caring for their dog, and binge-watching TV shows. He loved tennis and hanging out at the courts! An Air Force vet he flew solo at 70! For the past 23 years they were members and devoted volunteers at Community Presbyterian Church attending Sundays, many classes and activities and friend to Pastor Rod Stone. Beloved by his family, who adored his great good nature, sense of humor, stories, and patient listening, Bob was thoughtful, considerate, kind and joyful. Ever the optimist, he counseled others with his favorite saying, "Within every adversity lies a seed of equivalent benefit."
Longing for more time with him, Bob leaves his wife Sheila, son Craig Van Dyke, grandchildren Britny Barnes, Cameron Van Dyke, and great grandson Connor Barnes, daughter Christy Taylor, grandson Justin Akright, step children, Jennifer Morgo, Esther Diskin (Glenn), grandchildren Melissa Rothman (Seth), Benjamin Diskin, Gabriella Diskin, sister Marilyn Van Dyke and brother Ron Van Dyke (Joanne).