Obituary of Phillip Donald Van Dyk

Phillip Donald Van Dyk passed away after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer on Friday, May 6, 2022 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Dover. He had shared nearly 60 years of unforgettable memories, priceless wisdom, and infectious laughter with family and friends.

Born and raised in Denville to Donald Van Dyk and the late Ann Marie (Best), he was one of four children to bless the Van Dyk household. He graduated from Morris Knolls High School, class of 1981. Phillip had a passion for greenery, especially exotic plants. This passion became a career; he had worked for several companies before becoming his own boss. Not only did Phil do gardening for a living, but he also helped others with their plants, out of the kindness of his heart. His home was one to be envied. Sitting in his backyard was like traveling to another world. And he would share this beautiful atmosphere that he created with everyone. In fact, every Saturday night was bonfire and BBQ time for friends and family. You could always count on delicious food, good music, and a great time. In addition to his exceptional green thumb, Phil was a great cook. He loved hiking, sci-fi movies and books, video games, music, talk radio, and the Yankees. He adored spending time with his cats, Misty and Blackweed. Above anything else, Phil treasured spending time with friends and family. He was a smart man, a hard worker, genuine and kind. He will be sorely missed and forever treasured. Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his mother, Ann, and his sisters, Holly Lemoine and Ellen Van Dyk.

He leaves only joyful memories to his adored father, Donald; his loving brother and sister-in-law, Warren and Ellen; his caring brothers-in-law, Peter Lemoine and Scott Kafka; his cherished nieces and nephews, Eric (Patricia) and Christopher Lemoine, Michelle (Bryan) Sobieski, Jennifer (Arnold) Lei and their son Archie, Heather Van Dyk, Kim (Tyler Anderson) Kafka, and Zachary Van Dyk; his uncle Orland (the late Irene) Van Dyk and their son, Geary (Robin) Van Dyk and their son, Tyler; his best friend, Edward Weschek, Jr.; and many dear cousins, extended family, friends and neighbors.

A Celebration of Life will be held privately at his home. Memorial Donations are being accepted in his memory to the American Cancer Society by way of www.inmemof.org to ensure receipt of your donation. Please share a memory, light a candle, or leave a condolence to continue to celebrate the incredible life Phil bestowed upon us.