John Peter Dykeman
June 30, 1941 — August 18, 2009
John Peter Dykeman
On August 18, 2009, John Peter Dykeman slipped away peacefully in his home with his family. He courageously battled terminal cancer and left an indelible legacy of strength, love, and laughter during life's challenges as well as its triumphs.
He was born in Elbridge, Onondaga, New York on June 30, 1941. He was the second youngest of six children. He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, and 3 brothers. He is survived by his wife; Linda A. Dykeman (Mesquite, Nevada), 2 daughters; Cynthia Dykeman and Judith Spencer, a son in law; Isaac Speencer, 6 grandchildren; James and Danielle Dykeman, Aaron, Jaclyn, Lynda, and Isaac Spencer Jr., a brother; Michael Dykeman, three great grandchildren, as well as several in laws, nieces and sephews. All of whom loved him very much.
John was proud to live in the United States of America. He served our country in the Army National Guard whose motto "Always Ready, Always There" was one he lived and believed strongly. In March 1982, he was honorably discharged after serving as a Specialist Five E5 HHD in the 102 D Military Police Battalion.
John was a wonderful example of what could be accomplished through hard work and deternination. He attended Cornell University in Ithaca, New York and graduated from the Culinary Arts Program. This knowledge provided many wonderful opportunities for growth in the restaurant industry as an owner as well as manager for several local businesses.
A career change was presented more than a decade ago, one that changed his focus from restaurant management to becoming the local Terrible Herbst's Store Manager. This decision offered John plenty of opportunities to use the knowledge he had acquired over the years. He worked hard to establish good relations with co-workers as well as with his valued customers. His memory will always live in the hearts of those who took the time to know and understand this great man.
For those he has left behind he will be remembered most for the unconditional love, guidance, and support that he gave to every member of his family. John wanted to be remembered for the life he had lived. His final request was to have no memorial service, but instead he wanted people to take a moment to look around at the ones you love and choose to make a difference in their life today!
As a family, we would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Lonnie R. Empey, D.O. and each member of the Virgin Valley Home Care and Hospice team for their attentive care and compassion shown to John during his illness. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Memorial Guestbook" at www.virginvalleymortuary.com .