Sgm (Ret.) William Edward Van Dyke, Sr.

SGM (Ret.)  William Edward Van Dyke, Sr., 91, of Columbus, GA, passed away on Monday, December 14, 2015, at Columbus Hospice House.

A funeral service is scheduled for Monday, December 21st, at 1 PM at Vance Memorial Chapel with burial to follow at the Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, December 20th from 3 – 5 PM at Vance Memorial Chapel.

SGM (Ret.) Van Dyke was born on May 22, 1924, in Patterson, NJ, to the late Jacob and Grace Van Dyke. He proudly served in the US Army for over 27 years, serving in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.  His awards and decorations included the Silver Star, Bronze Star with V device and oak leaf cluster, and the Combat Infantryman’s badge Third award.  He also retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 15 years in West Palm Beach, FL, where he was an active member in Belvedere Baptist Church.  For the last 8 years, in Columbus, GA, he was an active member of Benning Hills Baptist Church.   

SGM (Ret.) Van Dyke’s rock solid faith and love of the Lord were cornerstones of the family.  He lived life, and taught his son and grandchildren how to do the same.  He was the family hero, not just because of his service to this country but because of his love, generosity, kindness, and faithfulness.  He was also an avid golfer and Atlanta Braves fan. 

Other than his parents he is preceded in death by siblings Joe Van Dyke, Martha Van Dyke and Junie Van Dyke, son Bill Van Dyke, Jr. and a great-grandson William.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Delores Adams Van Dyke; daughter-in-law, Kathy Van Dyke; grandchildren, Nikki Dugger (Andy) their children, Jessica, Kyle, Joshua and Ezekiel; William E. Van Dyke III (Lize-Mari) their children, Rayyel and William ”Quatro”; and Melissa Austin and her children, Israel, Josiah and Abel; extended family and many caring friends.