Norman Wendall Bykerk

Norman Wendall Bykerk, 82, passed away at home in Shelton, Washington, on January 14, 2024, after a long struggle with Parkinson's Disease. His family and golden retriever, Mandy, were by his side. He was born on November 30, 1941, in Carmel, California, to Maybelle C. and Norman H. Bykerk.

Growing up, Norman lived around the world as an Army brat, including attending four different high schools. He graduated high school from Clover Park in Lakewood, Washington, received his undergraduate degree from St. Martin's College in Lacey, Washington, and his graduate degree from Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington.

"Mr. Bykerk" spent his entire 34-year career in education, working in the North Thurston School District as a teacher, counselor, coach, assistant principal, and principal. Norman retired in 1997 as the principal of Komachin Middle School. After retiring, he owned Capital Firsts, a bookstore located in Lacey then Shelton, allowing him to indulge in his love of books and collecting.

In 1963, Norman met Katherine Dunn on a blind date. In 1964, they married in Tacoma, Washington, and had two daughters, Katherine and Kimberly (Casey and Kim). This coming June would have been their 60th wedding anniversary.

Norman is survived by his wife, Katherine; daughters, Kathy Nelson (Scott) and Kimberly Kelley (Paul); grandchildren, Colin Nelson (Elyse), Cameron Nelson (fiancée, Sarah), Christian Nelson, Amanda Kelley, and Patrick Kelley. He was so pleased to have been able to see Sophie Nelson, his first great-grandchild, turn one year old last fall. His two sisters, Lynne Cerny (Lyle) and Mary Kiewik (John), and their families also survive him.

At his request, there will be no public service. He will be interred at the cemetery on his beloved Harstine Island. Many thanks to the hospice team from Providence Hospice for helping Katherine care for Norman at home where he wanted to be.

Our serious/funny, stern/secretly tenderhearted husband, dad, and grandpa will be greatly missed. In his honor, read a good book, go for a walk with your dog, or start a collection of something you love.

Please leave condolences or share memories at http://www.FuneralAlternatives.org.