James Edward Van Dyke

James Edward Van Dyke

February 16, 1959 – February 18, 2025

James “Jim” (“Jimmy”) Edward Van Dyke, 66, of Boca Raton, FL, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2025. Born on February 16, 1959, in Glenridge, NJ, Jim was a man who led with kindness and generosity and leaves this as his legacy.

Jim built a successful real estate investment business from the ground up in the early 2000s, creating a lasting impact throughout South Florida. Known to the community as “the Legend” and “the GOAT,” Jim was not just a businessman—he was a mentor, a teacher, and a friend to many starting their careers in real estate. His network grew not just because of his sharp business mind, but because of the relationships he built and the people he uplifted along the way.

Before his success in real estate, Jim was an avid golfer who played competitively at Rollins College in the 1970s. Jim worked as a golf pro at PGA National and Boca West for years, where his mentoring nature made him a natural teacher. Beyond golf, Jim was a true workout fanatic– he never missed his daily gym session. Jim found great joy living by the ocean and he loved cruising to beautiful beaches with his beloved wife, Diane. At home, his loyal dog, Rocky, was a faithful companion.

Jim was known for his boundless kindness and generosity. To know him was to love him. No one ever had a bad word to say about "Jimmy"—he was a man who embraced life with passion, cared deeply for his stepchildren and grandchildren, and was a devoted husband, brother, and friend. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Diane Van Dyke; his stepdaughters, Sarah Barnett (Robert Barnett) and Laura Kendrall (James Kendrall); his cherished grandchildren, Allison Brown, Charles Kendrall, Emma Kendrall, Sarah Kendrall, and Molly Kendrall. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elsbeth Van Dyke. He is also survived by his siblings, Robert Van Dyke and Susan Burdsall (late husband, Ben Burdsall); his nieces and nephews, Robert Burdsall (Meredith Burdsall), Whitney Burdsall, Errin Scialpi (Dan Scialpi), and Colin Van Dyke (Lauren Van Dyke); and, of course, his faithful companion, Rocky.

A private service will be held in his honor. 

Jim’s warmth, wisdom, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.

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