10/27/2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mike Van Wyk age 56 of Knoxville, Iowa, on Sunday, Oct 27, 2024.
Family will receive friends on Monday, November 4th, from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Knoxville.
A celebration of life service will be held Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the Celebrate Church in Knoxville.
All are welcome to join in celebrating Michael’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holly Lee for Ava’s college fund, honoring the unwavering support Grandpa Mike provided in helping her achieve her dreams.
You may venmo @Holly-VanWyk-1.
Mike was born on September 4, 1968, in Pella, Iowa, the proud parents Doug and Jan Van Wyk. He was the oldest of three boys, Jay and Doug are his little brothers.
The family moved to the farm outside of Knoxville when he was 6 years old, and he attended school at Knoxville graduating in 1987.
Mike was very close to his grandparents and spent a lot of time with PaPa and MiMi. His love of animals began working with the cattle, sheep, and hogs on their farm.
He was also very active in 4H and enjoyed showing the livestock.
Mike worked at Hy-Vee in Knoxville, Maytag, the Knoxville Regional Livestock Market, and Knoxville Schools. He loved cutting firewood and mostly enjoyed the time spent talking with his customers.
Mike married Bobby Harlow on September 7, 1990, and together they welcomed their daughter, Holly, the following year.
They later divorced but remained devoted to their roles as loving parents.
Mike was a passionate supporter of his daughter. He never missed a single sporting event or activity she was in. He found great joy in watching her do what made her happy. Once his granddaughter Ava was born, he took great pride in attending all her activities as well. He also enjoyed hunting, going to the races, cutting firewood, finding joy in both the outdoors and the time spent with 
his beloved family and friends.
Welcoming him to Heaven are his grandparents Betty and Harold Van Wyk and Elizabeth and Bill Kroes.
Left to carry on his memories in their hearts are his loving parents, Jan and Doug Van Wyk; his brothers, Jay Van Wyk (Monica) and Doug Van Wyk (Jodi); his daughter Holly Lee (Brian); granddaughter Ava, bonus grandsons Branden and Ryan; and his cherished nieces and nephews: Rachel, Hannah, Claire, Madison, Ross, Kase, and Colton Van Wyk.
Mike was a loving son, loyal big brother, devoted father, proud grandfather, and friend to many. His legacy of love and laughter will be cherished by all who knew him.
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”