John Frederick Dykstra, 80, of Traverse City, and formerly of Brooklyn, MI, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, 2025, under hospice in Traverse City. Born on October 22, 1945, in Kalamazoo, he was the son of Frederick and Sadie (Johnson) Dykstra.

After graduating from Kalamazoo Christian High School in 1963, John proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Kalamazoo, where he met the love of his life, Rebecca "Becky" Jo Hill. He later pursued an engineering degree at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, becoming a lifelong Wolverine fan. John and Becky were married on May 23, 1970, in Kendallville, IN, and shared a devoted partnership that spanned more than five decades.

After graduating, the couple settled in Jackson, MI, where John began his long and fulfilling career as a mechanical engineer with Chrysler at the Chelsea Proving Grounds. He retired after 31 years of dedicated service.

In 2016, John and Becky made their home in Traverse City. John enjoyed sailing, traveling, and exploring northern Michigan, but his greatest joy came from time spent with his family.

John is survived by his wife, Becky Dykstra of Traverse City, his sons, Greg (Sara) Dykstra of Albion and Tom (Amy) Dykstra of Jackson, his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his siblings, Judy Stackpole of Kalamazoo, Bill Dykstra of Largo, FL, brother-in-law, Durrell McKenzie, of Kalamazoo, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary Jo Clemons.

In accordance with John's wishes, no funeral services will be held.

Memorial contributions in John's memory may be made to the Peninsula Community Library, 2893 Island View Road, Traverse City, MI 49686

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is assisting the family.

www.beaconfh.com