As we prepare for our 2nd Annual George Dykstra Memorial Car Show, it feels important to pause and reflect on the man who inspired this event.
George was a teacher, a mentor, and a lifelong learner. Before beginning his career in education, he honorably served in the United States Army National Guard. He went on to earn degrees from both Ball State University and Purdue University, and in 1977 he moved his family to New Hampshire, where he built their home in Chichester.
Much of George’s professional life was spent at Lakes Region Community College—then known as NHCTC—where he held several roles, including Dean of Extension and the original coordinator for the General Motors Automotive Service Education Program (ASEP). He retired from LRCC in 2002, but retirement didn’t slow him down. George continued to support the automotive community as an ASE Education Foundation Field Manager for the ME, NH, and VT Auto Dealers Associations, and as a buyback agent for an automotive manufacturer.
His commitment to service extended far beyond his career. George served on the NH New Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board for 20 years, on the NHAEF Board of Directors, the Chichester Board of Adjustments, and as Treasurer and Board Member of NH Gospel Radio. He also gave his time generously to his churches and community in countless other ways.
George was passionate about many things—his family, his work, cars, traveling to National Parks, good food, and good company. He had a remarkable gift for understanding how things worked, especially anything mechanical, and there seemed to be nothing he couldn’t fix.
Above all, George was compassionate, loving, and endlessly generous. He would do anything for anyone he could help, and he made a lasting impact on the people fortunate enough to know him.
We are proud to honor George through this event and look forward to celebrating his legacy for many years to come.