John Dirk (Jack) Van Dyke

February 7, 2026

Dr. John Dirk (Jack) Van Dyke was born in Edmonton, Alberta on November 7th 1943, to Dirk and Grace Van Dyke. Jack was the third of six children, and 2 foster siblings, who grew up in a full house, known by all for their hospitality, commitment to family, and a steadfast faith in Jesus.

Jack was a natural and accomplished student. He finished his undergraduate studies in Honours Chemistry at the University of Alberta, and was invited to complete his PhD at the University of British Columbia. During his time at UBC, he met Alice Bandringa. They were married on March 1, 1969, beginning a 57 year committed partnership.

After working in Ontario’s chemical industry, Jack and Alice returned to the west coast to join the faculty of Trinity Western College in Langley, BC. He felt a clear and personal calling to integrate science and faith.

During his tenure at Trinity Western University, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, was instrumental in developing the Nursing program, and was known as an accomplished educator, advisor and administrator. He was dedicated to community service through his involvement with Abbotsford Christian School, New Life CRC, the Abbotsford Nature Club, CLAC, Bethesda, Book Club, and founding the TWU Retirees Association.

Together, Jack and Alice raised four children: Karen (Mike), Meredith (Kevin), Jonathan (Joleen), and Laura (Shawn), and were later blessed with nine grandchildren (Anna, Ruth, Nathan, Elyse, Eden, Josie, Sebastian, Willa, Henrik) each of whom brought him great joy and pride.

After being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017, he lived with optimism and courage, holding onto hope. Even while navigating the challenges of illness he continued to invest in his family and community.

Jack passed away on February 7, 2026 at ARHCC, held in the care of family and sustained by Jesus. He is survived by his children, his wife, his siblings, and many lifelong friends. He will be remembered for his faith, his commitment to learning, and his desire to serve God and others in tangible, meaningful ways.

A celebration of life will be held at New Life CRC (35270 DeLair Road, Abbotsford), Friday, March 6, 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Jack and Alice Scholarship at TWU or ACS will be graciously received

Messages of Condolence

Our hearts are with you and your family. We loved and respected Jack and he will be deeply missed. God bless and comfort all of you in the days ahead.

- Vernon & Alida

Alice, My sincere condolences to you and the family. No words can take away the hurt and sorrow that comes upon the departure of one we love and hold so dear. May knowing that others care and are lifting you and the family up in prayer bring some comfort to your hearts as you journey the path of grief. . May the Good Shepherd be your source of strength, healing and comfort in the days ahead.Psalms 34:18 I will be praying that you will deeply know and experience during the days and years ahead Psalms 54:4 .

- Wendy Martin

Alice, my condolences to you and your family during this time of loss. Sending you much love.

- Nicki Ellis

Dear Alice, my deepest condolences to you and yiur family, on the passing of Jack. I have fond memories of him directing our choir many years ago. He inspired us all to sing from our hearts! Praying for the peace and comfort that surpasses all understanding!

- Caroline Haan

Dear Alice and family:We are so sorry to hear about Jack’s passing. Although we cannot attend the celebration of life service, we will be with you in thought and prayer.We pray that God will grant you comfort and strength as you face these difficult days.Richard and Linda

- Richard and Linda

My condolences to the family and all who cared for Jack. May he flights of angels wing him to his eternal rest. I took Chemistry 101 and 102 from Jack, Dr. Van Dyke, back in 1977-78. One of his lectures has stuck in my mind all these years. He talked about the properties of water, particularly how it expands when it freezes, and all the benefits this brings: everything from pond life being able to survive in the unfrozen mud under pond ice, to the way pressure from skate blades would melt it and allow the slipperyness for skating. He showed me that day how science can be a path towards wonder, and wonder can lead to worship of the God who pays attention to details. I shall be grateful for this for the rest of my life. He was a good teacher and a good man

- Michelle Bull

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