Carol A. Vandermark
Carol A. Vandermark, 81, of Rochester, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at 10:45 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017 at Life Care Center of Rochester.
In Fulton County, on July 6, 1936, Carol Ann Spurlock was born. She was a treasured daughter of Ira Morris and Nina L. Riley Spurlock.
On June 19, 1955, in Mentone, Carol married Lyle K. Vandermark. They enjoyed over 56 years of life’s adventures. From their union came three wonderful children Randy, Roy and Michele. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A vibrant woman with a strong work ethic, Carol and Lyle assisted her parents Ira and Nina with the poultry farm and dressing operations. The Vandermark’s continued the operations for nearly four decades. The decade of the 70’s allowed Lyle and Carol to provide Rochester’s retail community with the Western Auto Store. From about 1981 – 1991 Carol enjoyed greeting customers at Enyart’s True Value.
Carol was a lifelong member of Rochester’s Church of Christ. During her camping years she held memberships with Hoosier Neighbors, Sycamore Sam’s Chapter 13 and the Hoosier Campers, Escapee’s Indiana Chapter 51.
Sharing their passion for the love of the outdoors, Carol and Lyle enjoyed camping out under the star lit skies. In the early years the expeditions included the kids, introducing them to the beauty of the United States. When the “grands” arrived they too were included making many memorable trips. In all Lyle and Carol visited nearly all 50 states and many provinces of Canada and Mexico.
As a grandma, Carol had a huge soft spot for her grandchildren. She looked forward to their visits and enjoyed making memories. She was known to those closest to her as a “baby magnet.” Carol thoroughly enjoyed the warmth of the summer sunshine. She was a lifetime avid walker. In 1996 she was conveyed the “Top Gardener Award,” by the master gardeners club. There are many memories of her great recipes and skills with cooking and baking especially her red velvet cake.
Carol is lovingly remembered by a daughter, Michele Smith and husband Richard of Rochester; two sons: Randy Vandermark and wife Rosella of Milton, PA; Roy Vandermark and wife Lori of Rochester.; six grandchildren: Carlin Smith, Shelby Frazier, Chrystal Vandermark, Nathan Vandermark, Inga Omondi and husband T.C., Brent Vandermark and four great-grandchildren; two sisters: Regina Roberts of Nappanee, Sue Kay Gross and husband LeVaughn of Peru; and several nieces and nephews.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband Lyle on July 24, 2011, and a step brother, Sam Harmon.
A celebration of the life of Carol A. Vandermark will be at 11 a.m., Monday Sept. 25, at the Church of Christ, 120 East 5th Street, Rochester. Pastor Aaron Gross will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 4-8 p.m., Sunday, Sept.r 24, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1220 West 18th Street, Rochester and an hour prior to the service in the church Monday. Burial will be in the Athens Cemetery.