Vickie Dykstra

     Vickie Pauline Dykstra, daughter of Lester William and Barbara Lou (Kimball) Dykstra, was born January 22, 1955, in Spencer, IA. She was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church of May City, IA.  Her elementary school years were first spent in Harris, IA, where she was a junior baton twirler.  She moved to a farm outside Everly, IA during her fourth grade year. She was active in a broad range of school activities, participated in both girls' and boys' 4-H, gave presentations at the Clay County Fair and Iowa State Fair, and served as church organist throughout high school. She was a graduate of the Everly High School Class of 1973. Vickie earned a bachelor's degree in computer science from Iowa State University before computers were cool. Army ROTC helped her through college and provided a mastery of riflery; she later tried her hand at big game hunting. She worked in the computer field as a programmer, project manager, and systems analyst with several international companies.  

     Vickie was dedicated to her beloved family, her beloved canine companions, her church, and to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She loved to sing and was part of the Praise Hymn Singers at Memorial Lutheran Church in Ames, IA, during her college years. She sang with the Cherry Hills Community Church choir in Highlands Ranch, CO, for many years, including Christmas at the Ranch and Easter concerts. Church small groups, Bible studies, and many other church activities were precious to her.

     Vickie loved the simple pleasures of life . . . a good cup of coffee, a good game of cards, a good Broncos football game, and a good worship service and sermon. An avid reader and learner, she loved bowling and the outdoors--Alpine skiing, hiking, and golfing, and even tried skydiving a time or two.

     Vickie passed away of natural causes and went to join that Heavenly choir on October 3, 2022. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her father; a brother, David Dykstra; and her precious canine companions, Sonny, Buddy the First, Penny, Skylar, and Buddy the Second.

     She is survived by her mother; one brother, Mark (Cheryl) Dykstra of Chelsea, MI; two sisters, Kay (Mark) Black of Palmer, AK; Connie (Steve) Swan of Jackson, WY and Dickens, IA; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Vickie had a heart for giving and volunteering, and was passionate about helping hurting souls and animals. Memorials will be directed toward animal adoption centers and her church.