Delbert Edward Vandevander, 90, of Whitmer was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Nov. 10, 2025.
He was born in Osceola to the late Edward and Willa (Armentrout) Vandevander.
A faithful member of Job Apostolic Pentecostal Church, Mr. Vandevander’s life was a reflection of his deep love for God and family. His steadfast faith and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew him.
At the age of 22, he met the love of his life, Loretha Mae Dice, when she was just 15. Their love story began with humble beginnings — borrowing $50 from a family member and driving to Oakland, Maryland, to be married Aug. 16, 1958, at the courthouse, since his wife was underage to wed in West Virginia. What began as a simple act of love grew into a lifelong partnership of 67 beautiful years, built on faith, devotion, and unwavering commitment.
He worked for many years at Labcraft/Colonial Mill Works, where he was known for his dedication, strong work ethic, and willingness to lend a helping hand. His quiet dependability and humble nature earned the respect of all who worked alongside him.
He was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to make everyone feel welcome. He cherished time spent with family, often sharing stories of the old days. He will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering devotion to the Lord, and the quiet strength that guided his family for generations.
While his loved ones will miss him deeply, they rejoice in knowing he has finished his race and is now in the presence of his Savior, reunited with those who went before him.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
He was the last surviving of nine beloved siblings – brothers, Paul Jr., Sanford, Boyd, and Harry, and sisters, Wanda Lee, Pauline, Ethel, and Kathryn.
Together, he and his wife raised three children who were their greatest blessings, Delbert Junior (Jacqueline) Vandevander, Dianna (Mark) Sauters, and Delores Bender.
His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Alison (Bryan) Eddy, Ashlee Vandevander, Britnee (Isaac) Bradford, Kelsey (Lindsey) Sauters, Rayna Sauters, and Aaron (Renee) Bradford, his great-grandchildren, Marclyn, Tucker, and Jocelyn Eddy, Bennett, Emmett, and Jarrett Sauters and Penelope Bradford, and step-grandson, Randy Bender, Jr.
He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Delores Bender; a grandson, Casey Sauters; a step-grandson, Jonathan Bender; a step-great-granddaughter, Onyx Bender; and a son-in-law, Randy Bender.
Final rites were conducted Nov. 13 at the Lohr & Barb Funeral Home in Elkins with the Reverend Angilee Whetzel officiating. Interment followed in the North Fork Cemetery at Riverton.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.
