Obituary of Richard Lynn Dykstra

Richard "Dick" Lynn Dykstra, age 82, of Iowa City, Iowa, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025. He was born on October 19, 1942, in Des Moines and grew up in Runnells, Iowa. Over the years, Dick made homes in Columbia, Missouri, and Iowa City, Iowa, where he and his family built lasting roots and shared a lifetime of memories.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bertha Dykstra, and by his daughter-in-law, Kellie Dykstra. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Dykstra; his children, Richard “Michael” Dykstra of Iowa City; Jodie Dains-Swailes (Douglas) of Iowa City; Derek Dykstra (Kellie) of West Branch; and Veronica LynnLee (Julie) of Iowa City. He was a proud grandfather to Callie (Ethan), Mason, Cooper, Piper, Kellen, Lynzi, and Keaton. He is also survived by his brother, Jon Lee Dykstra (Betty) of Altoona, and his sister, Betty Renaud (Robert) of Mitchellville.  Education and a love of learning were central to Dick’s life. After earning his bachelor’s degree from Central College in 1965, he completed his Ph.D. in Statistics at the University of Iowa in 1968. He began his career at the University of Missouri at Columbia, where he taught for 14 years. In 1982, he returned to the University of Iowa as a tenured professor, later serving as department chair for several years and leaving a lasting impact on both colleagues and students. Over the course of his career, he published numerous professional articles and was widely respected for his leadership and scholarship. Central College honored him with its Distinguished Alumni Award in 1991.

Before his academic career, Dick was a standout athlete at Central College. He was a three-time all-Iowa Conference football running back and defensive back and earned all-league honors in baseball. As a senior, he co-captained the 1964 football team, which won a conference title. Dick was inducted into Central College’s Athletics Hall of Honor in 2003 for his achievements both on and off the field. The determination and discipline he showed on the field became hallmarks of his life, guiding his teaching, mentorship, and devotion to family.

Above all else, Dick treasured his family. He delighted in time spent with his children and grandchildren, whether sharing a meal, celebrating milestones, or simply watching baseball together. Dick and Patricia were high school sweethearts, beginning their relationship during their senior year, and married in 1964. Together, they raised four children and fostered many others, creating a home filled with love and laughter.

Those who knew Dick will remember his quiet sense of humor, his generous spirit, and his steadfast presence. He was always ready to lend a hand, and his calm, dependable nature made him a pillar for family, friends, and colleagues alike.

A private family gathering will be held in his honor, as Dick wished. There will be no public service.

Though his professional achievements were many, it is his devotion to family, his kindness, and his gentle strength that will be most remembered. His life was full and well-lived, and his legacy continues in the lives of his wife, children, grandchildren, and the countless students and friends he inspired along the way.