Norvel Milton ‘Mit’ Van Dyke Sr.

Buckner, Mo. ? Memorial services for Norvel Milton “Mit” Van Dyke Sr., 81, Buckner, Mo., will be at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Speaks Buckner Chapel, Buckner.

Mr. Van Dyke died Friday, May 30, 2003.

He was born Dec. 15, 1921.

Mr. Van Dyke was a veteran of World War II. He retired from Honeywell as a senior process engineer. He also owned and operated Van Dyke’s Christmas Trees for 38 years with his family. He was a founding member of Fort Osage High School Booster Club and helped build the first track at the high school. He was a Master Gardener with Missouri Extension, served as treasurer for Jackson County Extension Council, founded a little league baseball program in Buckner, was a volunteer teacher with the Laubach Literacy Program and was a guest speaker at Fort Osage High School.

He was recognized as head of the Jackson County Farm Family of the Year by former Gov. John Ashcroft and was treasurer of Hall’s Memorial Reunion Committee. He also officiated high school sports and was a pilot trainer on Link Trainer for the Air Force.

His wife of 56 years, Doris, died earlier.

Survivors include a daughter, Phylis Van Dyke-Perrin; a son, Norvel Milton “Buzz” Jr.; five grandchildren; a stepgrandson; and a great-grandson.

Online condolences may be sent at www.speakschapel .com.