Gary Dykman

Gary L. Dykman, age 66, passed away on July 28, 2022. Born in Kansas City on February 21,1956 to Leroy and Pauline Dykman, Gary’s childhood was filled with baseball, boy scouts, family road trips, and time with aunts, uncles, and many cousins.

Gary married Patty (Martinsen) in 1981. Their 41 years together were filled with love and plenty of puns. Along with their two children, enjoying time with friends and family, traveling, and live theater were just a few of the highlights.

Gary had a long career as a public school teacher in Industrial Arts and Technical Theater in the Olathe School District. He had a gift for connecting with students by entrusting them with projects and power tools to craft the sets he designed for theater productions.

After retiring, Gary found a second career at Family Tree Nursery where he shared his love of gardening and nature with many customers, friends and colleagues. He also shared his artistic side by creating repurposed artwork from old wood and stained glass.

He is survived by his wife Patty Dykman, children Molly (Andrew) Wilson and Ben (Nicole) Dykman, grandchildren Thomas, Alice, Parker, and Amos, brother Steve (Marjie) Dykman, and sister-in-law Geraldine Martinsen. Additionally, he is survived by three exchange students Aurélien, Kanako, and Sam, nieces Sara and Abi, a nephew Bryan, and aunts, uncle, and cousins.

A private graveside service will be held for the family. At his request, a party to celebrate his life will be held in the fellowship hall of Advent Lutheran Church on Saturday, September 24th from 3-6pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Gary Dykman Memorial Fund at Olathe Public School Foundation, Kansas City Hospice, or enjoy a live theater show in his memory.