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My dad was really looking forward to this reunion and had been working with the committee before he passed away in January, 2013. He never got around to writing about himself for the page, so I’ve accepted my mom’s request to write this on dad’s behalf.
My dad was married to Barbara Dykstra for 43 years. She certainly was the love of his life and his best friend. Together, they raised three children: Brad, Kristen and Betsy. They now celebrate grandparenthood- I think being a grandpa was my dad’s favorite role. Seven grandchildren loved spending time with their grandpa at the lake, on the boat, at the pool in Florida, or at basketball games at Calvin and GRCHS.
My dad worked for Holland American Wafer Company as the Vice President of Manufacturing and Contract Sales. He loved his work and maintained his relationship with Christ while in his role at HAWCO. He led with humility, integrity and generosity. I have been told by those who worked most closely with him how honorable he was in the workplace and each of them enjoyed working for my dad. My dad retired in 2008. In his retirement he kept himself busy by volunteering for boards in Spring Lake, Grand Rapids and Marco Island. He had a hard time sitting still!
My dad was a very fun, happy guy. He lived life faithfully to his Lord and Savior, modeling his faith to all who came in contact with him. He was generous with love, with time and with all he was blessed with.
- Kristen, on behalf of my dad
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Jane Christensen (Wong)
Tom volunteered to be the Chair person for the 50th class reunion and it seemed no one was looking forward to it more than he was. He spent hours calling members of the class and then relayed some of the conversations back to the committee . His enthusiasm was an inspiration to the committee and I don't know how we can accomplish our goals without his support. In his honor we will work to make it the success he would have wanted. My condolences to his dear wife Barb and his family. Sincerely, Jane (Christensen) Wong
Elaine Rosendall (DeStigter)
Tom's wife, Barb, will be my guest at all the reunion events, so she will experience some of the fruit of Tom's labor. Thank you, Jane, for honoring Tom in this way. He is greatly missed by many and in many ways.
Judy Penning (Winkle)
How lovely, ladies. My heart aches for Barb and her family. Tom and I had so much fun working on our 9th grade reunion and also that of the Class of '63. There is a strong chance we will be gone over the reunion dates but the event will surely honor Tom. Blessings to all. JW
Thomas Swets (Swets)
Tom and I were good friends in high school. We warmed the bench together on the JV basketball team (undersized and under-utilized forwards), and , knowing that we most likely would not make varsity, we treaded water on the swimming team the next year. He was fun and opinionated. My condolensces to Barb and the family.