Virginia Mae Thouin Dykema, age 89, of Grand Rapids passed away on June 30, 2021. She was preceded in death by her husband, Steven L. Dykema of 65 years; brother, David Thouin; son-in-law, Timothy Lomas; and brother-in-law, Craig Meyer. Virginia is survived by five children: Dr. Deborah L. Dykema (Mike Otis) of Phoenix, AZ; Gregory J. Dykema (Karen) of Hudsonville; John E. Dykema (Michele Maly) of Spring Lake; Susan L. Dykema of Manitou Springs, CO; and Mark S. Dykema (Nancy) of Holt, and nine grandchildren: Michael and Matthew (Alicia) Lomas, Corey (Lindsay) and Caroline Dysick, Kristen (Benjamin III) Drayton and Scott Dykema, and Adam, Alex and Gabrielle Dykema; sisters-in-law, Ruth Thouin, Denise Meyer; and many nieces and nephews. She was born in Grand Rapids on February 10, 1932, to Ernest and Sadie Thouin, and graduated from South High School and Michigan State University in 1953 where she met her husband. An elementary school teacher in her community for more than a decade, she was also active in her church, Immaculate Heart of Mary, and the Mary Catherine Guild at St. Mary’s Hospital for many years. She enjoyed golf, tennis, bridge, ping pong and traveling. During their retirement, she and her husband enjoyed the winters at their home in Sun Lakes, AZ. Her fondest memories are those of raising her five children with her husband and watching her nine grandchildren grow and mature. A kind-hearted, loving woman, she loved being surrounded by her family. She was very proud of all of them.
Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Monday, July 5, 2021, at 11:00 AM, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1935 Plymouth SE, Rev. Leonard Sudlik, presiding. Visitation will be Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at church. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Killgoar Foundation, 1935 Plymouth SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506.