Jack Lee Vandevanter, a member of the Douglas MacArthur graduating class of 1965, was involved with freshmen and sophomore football.
Jackie Lee “Jack” Vandevanter, 77, of Decatur, Illinois, died at his home on Sunday, December 15, 2024, with his family by his side.
Jack was born in Decatur in January of 1947, the son of John and Wanda Vandevanter. He was a 1965 graduate of MacArthur High School. Jack worked as a draftsman for Illinois Power Company. He was an avid bowler, member of the Decatur Bowlers Association and recent inductee to the Decatur Bowlers Hall of Fame. In his younger days he was a racecar co-owner with Lee Jenkins involved with Macon Speedway.
Jack Vandevanter was a coach for Karla’s traveling softball teams. His grandkids loved their papa dearly. Jack married his sweetheart Joette Donovan in Decatur on October 16, 1976.
Surviving is his wife Joette Marie Vandevanter of Decatur, children, Lorie (Jeffrey) Laskowski of Argenta, Christopher Vandevanter of Decatur, Karla (Michael) Lamberto of Pasco, WA., six grandchildren Karson, Konnor, Luke, Zachary, Rachel, and Gabrielle, one great grandchild Katara, sister Marsha Kohler of Decatur, nephew Joshua (Amy) and great nephew, Oliver Smith of Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents. (Source.)
A memorial celebration of Jack’s life was held at 7:00 pm Friday December 20, 2024, at West Decatur Church of God (4500 West Main Street Decatur, IL., 62522) with Pastor Ed Hollis officiating. Memorials if desired may be made to the American Cancer Society or to The Macon County Humane Society. R.I.P.
Thanks to Stephen Haury for passing along the news.
