William David Dykstra

William David Dykstra, lovingly known as “Bill,” passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on May 22, 2026, in Fort Pierce, Florida, at the age of 89.

Born on March 10, 1937, in Chicago to Nicholas and Ilma Dykstra, Bill lived a life full of adventure, curiosity, craftsmanship, and deep appreciation for the world around him. In the 1980s, he moved to Florida from Montana, where he continued building a life centered around family, learning, and the outdoors.

Bill was a lifelong educator and explorer. He taught science and biology in Australia, Hawaii, Guam, to Native American communities in Montana, and throughout St. Lucie County. He had a gift for teaching and a passion for sharing knowledge with others.

Beyond the classroom, Bill was an accomplished builder and craftsman. Holding his contractor’s license, he designed and built many beautiful homes over the years. He was also a talented woodworker who could often be found in his workshop creating with his hands. Bill especially loved working on cars during his years living in Guam.

An adventurer at heart, Bill loved the sea and spent much of his life sailing. He sailed through the Panama Canal to the Great Lakes, traveled to Guatemala, and sailed extensively up and down the East Coast of the United States. In the late 1960s, he journeyed from Guam through Thailand, the Philippines, and Russia before returning home via the Trans-Siberian Railway— an experience that reflected his fearless spirit and love of discovery.

Bill’s creativity and ingenuity were legendary among those who knew him. He built his own pontoon boat using wing tanks from a B-25 bomber, proudly naming it “The Jolly Green Giant.” He also owned two beloved sailboats, both named “Planktos,” inspired by individual pieces of plankton drifting through the sea.

He cherished summers spent in Valparaiso, Indiana, International Falls, Minnesota, and Red Lodge, Montana- places that held many treasured memories throughout his life. Bill also had a deep love for trees, reading, and nature in all its forms.

Even into his later years, Bill remained remarkably active. A dedicated master swimmer, he proudly ranked among the top 10 swimmers in the nation for his age group just last year.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Theresa Heise of Fort Pierce, Florida; sons, Bill Dykstra (Marybeth) of Mount Dora, FL and Mike Nordlum (Aimee) of Red Lodge, MT; daughter, Julie Dykstra-Powers (Tom) Williamstown, MA; stepson, Richard Haisley of North Miami Beach, FL; stepdaughter, Lee Anne Haisley-Bolonka (Andrew) of Fort Pierce, FL; brother, Jay Dykstra of Platteville, WI; and grandchildren, Travis Dykstra, Tyler Dykstra (Carly), and Avery Powers.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Ilma Dykstra, and by his wife, Kathy.

Bill will be remembered for his brilliant mind, adventurous soul, steady hands, and the countless lives he touched through teaching, building, mentoring, and loving deeply. His stories, wisdom, and adventurous spirit will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Memorial donations may be made to Treasure Coast Hospice, 5000 Dunn Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34981.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Haisley Reception Center. Please wear blue in honor of Bill and bring stories to share.