Scott VanDyk

Scott VanDyk

Life Story

Fun-loving, full of energy, and talkative, Scott VanDyk was a blessing in the lives of his family. He could be more reserved, but once he got to know someone he really came out of his shell. Scott faced struggles throughout much of his life and in many ways he was just a kid at heart himself. Although he will be deeply missed, Scott’s family and friends will hold fast to the memories they made together.

The 1960s were a colorful time in American history. We elected the young John F. Kennedy as our 35th President of the United States and were inspired by the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. The space race between our country and the Soviet Union became exciting when the first man walked on the moon on July 20, 1969. It was during this same eventful year that Scott Dale was born on December 8th in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and it was six weeks later that he was adopted by Dale and Gloria (Ammon) VanDyk. He was the oldest child in his family raised in the family home alongside his sister, Susan. Scott was the cutest little boy around and was a bundle of energy right from the start. He and his sister were typical siblings who got along at times and had their sibling rivalries as well.

In many ways Scott experienced a typical upbringing for the youth of his generation. He loved being outside and looked forward to spending time on the family boat that was kept in Grand Haven. Scott was drawn to the water like a magnet and loved things like water skiing and tubing in addition to just jumping in and splashing around. There was also the time that the VanDyk family went to Mackinac Island when Scott had a fun ride back in the bow of the boat with huge swells. As a student at local schools he attended Orchard View Elementary and later Forest Hills Northern High School where he was a good student as he was naturally very smart. Scott also attended Highland Hills Baptist Church with his family.

Throughout his life Scott loved sports. During his earliest days he played baseball, and he was always certain that there were scouts around to evaluate his performance! Over time Scott grew out of baseball and began playing football. He always enjoyed watching sports of any kind. While in the 10th grade his leg was crushed in a Forest Hills Northern football game, which was the end of his days playing sports. This was a difficult transition for Scott as his life was very much defined by being an athlete, and many of his friends were still athletes. He continued to enjoy watching sports and was a die hard University of Michigan fan who also loved Red Wings hockey, following NASCAR, and cheering on the Patriots - primarily because their quarterback was a University of Michigan standout.

While a teen Scott was diagnosed with mental health disorders that caused him to struggle intermittently throughout the rest of his life. He eventually earned his high school degree from East Kentwood. Scott later took classes to become an electrician and spent some time working as an assistant to some local electricians. He eventually earned some computer certifications and worked shortly in the field but did try to incorporate his computer skills with his electrical skills.

Along the way Scott met Christina Heiden in the late nineties, and they were married for about 10 years. During that time he helped raise their three children, Jasmine, Austin, and Aydan. Although their marriage later ended in divorce, Scott and Christina remained positive in their feelings toward one another.

As a father Scott loved having fun with his kids. They often played video games together, but heading out to his parents‘ cottage was always a great time. Scott’s younger side really shined through while at the cottage as he was always the first to jump in off the pontoon. He liked trying to splash his parents and encouraged his children to do the same. Riding around on jet skis was another fun time there as was making s’mores around the campfire.

Despite Scott’s challenges and making life difficult for those around him at times, during the good times he could be so much fun to be around. He was talkative once he got to know someone and he had a great sense of humor too. Scott talked to his sister and mom on a regular basis and made some great friends through his divorce support group at Calvary Church. He liked watching television, reading, and playing video games in his free time.

A beloved son, brother, father, and friend, Scott VanDyk will be deeply missed. He enjoyed the times shared with his children no matter what they were doing. Scott will never be forgotten.

Scott Dale VanDyk, age 44 of Grand Rapids, passed away April 26, 2014. He was preceded in death by his father, Dale VanDyk. Scott is survived by his children: Jasmine, Austin and Aydan VanDyk; his children's mother, Christina VanDyk; mother, Gloria VanDyk; sister, Susan (Jeff) Dunn; nephews Kyler and Cory Dunn; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins. A service to remember his life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 11 AM at Highland Hills Baptist Church, 1415 Northrup NW where friends may visit with his family from 10 AM until the time of the service. For those who wish, memorial contributions to Mel Trotter Ministries are appreciated. To read more about his life, to share a memory, or to sign the guestbook, please visit www.lifestorynet.com