Obituary: William E. Dykens

William E. Dykens, 78, of Norton, passed away at home, in the presence of his family, Aug. 29, 2012.

He was the husband of Patricia A. (Benson) Dykens, to whom he was wed on Feb. 28, 1959. Born in Cambridge on Jan. 19, 1934, he was a son of the late William and Mary (Boyle) Dykens.

Bill grew up in Cambridge and was educated in Cambridge public schools. During the Korean War, he served his country as a member of the United States Army. He was honorably discharged on March 1, 1954 with the rank of CPL (T).

A retired forklift operator, Mr. Dykens was employed at Star Market for many years prior to retiring. He had made his home in Norton for the past 36 years and was formerly of Roslindale.

Besides spending time with his family, Bill enjoyed being outdoors and also listening to music.

In addition to his wife of over 53 years, he is survived by his children Bruce D. Dykens and his wife Elizabeth of Santee, CA, Christine L. Lincks and her former husband Ronald of Norton, Alan L. Dykens of Phoenix, AZ, Dennis M. Dykens of Plymouth and Kathleen M. Dykens and her partner Tom Maron of Norton; his siblings, John Dykens of Woburn, Edward Dykens of Cambridge, Thomas Dykens of Ohio and Barbara Anaskevich-Martineau of New Hampshire; his seven grandchildren; his eight great grandchildren; and his many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Timothy W. Dykens who passed away Oct. 1, 2008 and his brothers Frank and James Dykens.

Funeral services will be held privately at the Norton Memorial Funeral Home in Norton. Burial will follow in the Timothy Plain Cemetery, Norton.

Visiting hours have been omitted and those wishing may remember Mr. Dykens with a donation in his memory made to the New England Shelter for Homeless Veterans, 17 Court St., Boston, MA 02108.