HERBERT R. "HERB" VAN WYK

1918 - 2011

Herbert R. Van Wyk, age 92, a resident of Mount Vernon for twenty years, passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2011 a Skagit Valley Hospital.

Herb was born on February, 21, 1918 in Hull, Iowa, the son of William T. and Susan (Dykstra) Van Wyk.

During World War II he was a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne. After the war he became the Vice President with Wonder Bread and Continental Bakery Companies.

In 1940 he married Geraldine Nielson; in 1987 he married Beth Burkhalter, and in December of 2002 he married Florence Schneider.

After retirement he enjoyed working with his son, Michael at Hostess Cake Distributorship in Jacksonville, Florida.

Herb's mission in life was to be a servant for others. He could fix anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed his help. Herb arrived with tools in hand, ready to tackle handyman jobs that were beyond our ability. He was a devoted servant to his church and generously gave his time to help with many projects at his church. Herb was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Mount Vernon.

The most important thing to Herb was his family. He was the glue that held the family together and he maintained in close contact with everyone, even though they were separated by long distances. He took great pride in his own grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as the grandchildren and great grandchildren of his extended family. He thoroughly enjoyed the many family gatherings and celebrations.

One of Herb's passions was traveling in his R.V. He meticulously planned the itinerary, when he and Florence drove around the country visiting their many relatives and friends.

He also enjoyed woodworking and spent many hours in his shop building numerous pieces of furniture for others to enjoy. Herb's loving spirit and generosity will be missed by everyone whose lives be touched.

Herb is survived by his loving wife, Florence Schneider Van Wyk of the family home; son, Michael Van Wyk of Loma, Colorado; daughter, Vicki Miller of Jacksonville, Florida; two brothers, Arthur Van Wyk of Pasadena, Texas and Wally Van Wyk of San Antonio, Texas; six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Geraldine and his second wife, Beth.

Memorial contributions may be given to the First United Methodist Church of Mount Vernon, 1607 E. Division St., Mount Vernon, WA 98273.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 25, 2011, 2:00 PM at the First United Methodist of Mount Vernon.
You may offer your condolences to Herb's family and share memories online at www.kernfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Kern Funeral Home of Mount Vernon.