October 31, 2016 10.18 am This story is over 89 months old

Family’s tribute after death of much-loved former Lincoln City player

The family of ‘true character’ and former Lincoln City footballer Don Dykes have paid tribute to him and his career highlights after sadly announcing his death. Donald William “Don” Dykes, who played for Lincoln City for 12 years from 1948-49, died peacefully on Tuesday, October 25 at Lincoln County Hospital with his family, aged 86. Daughter Deb…

The family of ‘true character’ and former Lincoln City footballer Don Dykes have paid tribute to him and his career highlights after sadly announcing his death.

Donald William “Don” Dykes, who played for Lincoln City for 12 years from 1948-49, died peacefully on Tuesday, October 25 at Lincoln County Hospital with his family, aged 86.

Daughter Deb Dykes described him as a wonderful husband, father and grandfather, who loved outings and holidays with the family.

Don, who was born in 1930, made 95 appearances in the Football League, playing for Lincoln City as a wing half.

Don pictured in newspaper clippings. Top picture - third from left on back row. Bottom picture - Second from right on bottom row.

Don pictured in newspaper clippings. Top picture – third from left on back row. Bottom picture – Second from right on bottom row.

He began his football career with the village club in Metheringham and signed for Lincoln City of the Third Division North after being spotted at a charity match.

After retiring from Lincoln he went to Boston United. Upon retirement, he took up golf and became Head Green Keeper at Carholme Golf Club.

Daughter Deb said: “He was a part-time professional while he did his apprenticeship at the British Crop Driers, then aged 21 he did his national service, all while playing for Lincoln, he served at RAF Cranwell, also playing for their team and the RAF flying training command team.

“After two years, he returned to a full time professional still with Lincoln until 1960-61 when he was transferred to Boston Utd.

Don with his wife Yvonne.

Don with his wife Yvonne.

“He then went on to play cricket, having trials for the county playing for Hykeham and the crop driers. In later years took up golf and played at Carholme golf club, where he worked until retirement as Head Green Keeper.

“He was a wonderful husband, married to mum Yvonne for 63 years, father to myself and Paul, grandfather to Laura, Emily, Garreth and Ryan.

“The last few years he was wheelchair-bound, but still enjoyed many holidays and outings. He was a true character, loved by all. His last holiday was in August with mum and I to Cromer.”