James Peter Dykema

James Peter Dykema of Kalamazoo, MI passed away on July 15, 2022, at the age of 77. He was born in Muskegon, MI on October 13, 1944, the son of Lambert and Helen (Zagars) Dykema.  Jim graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central in 1962, following graduation he attended Muskegon Community College and Western Michigan University and obtained degrees in Economics, Electronics and a Master’s degree in Community College Teaching.

While attending WMU he met his future wife Mary Polzien at an 8am bowling class.  They were united in holy matrimony in 1971, and over the years they welcomed five children into their lives. In 1984 they moved their family from Muskegon, MI to Kalamazoo, MI so Jim could pursue a career teaching electronics at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Jim worked hard throughout his 25 years of service at KVCC eventually earning a promotion to the Telecommunications Manager from which he retired in 2009.

In his spare time, he enjoyed building models, woodworking, fishing, and golfing but more than anything he loved spending time with his children, whether it be helping with the local Boy Scout Troop, officiating swim meets, helping with home repairs, or just listening.

He is preceded in his passing by his parents and brother Lambert.  Left to cherish his loving memory is his wife of fifty-one years: Mary (Polzien) Dykema; children: Daniel (Xiao Yan) Dykema, Debbie (Shawn) Jung, Julie (Michael) Militello, Meggie Dykema, and Kari Dykema; grandchildren: Morgan Jung, Peyton Jung, and Luca Militello; and sisters: Lynne St. Amour and Debbie Esposito.

In accordance with James’ wishes cremation has taken place.

Memorials made in James’ memory may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) or a local Hospice care facility

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign James’ guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Dykema family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 129 South Grand Street, Schoolcraft, MI 49087. 269-679-5622.