Christopher Edward DYKO

1966 - 2014

DYKO, Christopher Edward Passed away on December 28th, 2014. He was born in Champaign, Illinois on March 16th, 1966 to Chuck and Maggie Dyko. Chris graduated from University High School in Spokane and acquired his B.A. and Master's Degree in Educa-tion from Washington State University. After four standout years as right offensive lineman for the W.S.U Cougars, Chris spent seven years as a professional athlete, including playing for the Chicago Bears, the Seattle Seahawks and Canadian Football League. Chris found a way to blend his expertise in education with his passion for athletics, by serving as an academic counselor for the athletic departments at Michigan State University, University of Houston and the University of Idaho. Chris joined American Military University in 2008 as their top Northwest Regional Coordinator. He was the brightest light, so filled with energy, passion, compassion, irreverence, humor and affection. As a tall man of 6'6, he was also bigger than life. Everywhere he went, he could immediately engage people with his warmth and make them laugh. People would be easily drawn to him. He was a huge WAZZU Coug fan and would travel to every game to cheer them on. He was a natural athlete who took to cycling, kayaking, snow shoeing, weight lifting, and swimming. He enjoyed concerts, theme parties and being with friends and his family. His favorite thing to do was give someone a great big bear hug. His last moments were spent doing what he loved, being with people and traveling. He was so in love with life. His magnificent smile and ability to make people laugh will forever be with us, as will the sorrow of never seeing it again, and the gratitude for having ever seen it at all. Chris is survived by his twin sisters, Katrina (Rupert van Wormer) and Debbie (Reeve Baily); and his parents Chuck and Maggie; uncle Jürgen Hoffmann, aunt Hella Hoffmann, cousin Boris Hoffmann. Services will be held in Spokane on January 17th, 2015, 2 pm, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3606 South Schafer Rd., Spokane Valley, WA 99206. There will be celebration of life in Seattle on January 25, 2015, 1-5 pm, Club Sur, 2901 1st Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98134. * Memorial donations may be made in his name, or by visiting the WSU Scholarship Fund website at www.cougarathleticfund.com