Helen Elaine Vandermark's Obituary
Helen Elaine Vandermark, age 76, of Seymour, passed away Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Research Medical Center in Kansas City.
Helen was born on October 7, 1949, the daughter of Clarence and Erma (Morgan) Smith. Helen graduated from Seymour High School and continued her education at Indian Hills Community College, where she earned her associate's degree. On August 4, 1967, she was united in marriage to Kenneth Vandermark. To this union, six children were born, Connie, Teresa, Brenda, Kenneth, William, and Rose.
A woman of remarkable dedication, Helen took great pride in her work. She spent 20 years employed at Rubbermaid and later devoted 22 years to Hill Phoenix before retiring at the age of 72. Her strong work ethic and reliability earned the respect of coworkers and friends alike.
Outside of her career, Helen found joy in life's simple pleasures. She was an enthusiastic Bingo player who loved the thrill of the game and the camaraderie it brought. Evenings often found her enjoying her favorite game shows, cheering on football teams, or gathered around a table playing cards. Above all else, Helen treasured time spent with her family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter, warmth, and love. She was the glue to the family, and was the reason everyone got together for the holidays.
Left to cherish Helen's memory are her children, Brenda Barrell, Kenneth "Cisco" (Josie) Vandermark, William "Poncho" Vandermark and Rose Vandermark-Martin; her sons-in-law, Clovie Coffman Sr. and Charlie Baugh; her grandchildren, Clovie Coffman Jr., Robbie (Brittany) Vandermark, Amanda (Todd) Leavitt, Katrina Baugh, Hunter Barrell, Holly (Cody) Barrell-Hagberg, Luke Vandermark, Molly Vandermark, Dustin Vandermark, Kendall Leavitt, Lacey Martin and Teagan Martin; her siblings, Mary Ellen (Richard) Small, Jane (Paul) Christian, and John (Peggy) Smith; as well as several great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Vandermark in 1988; two daughters, Connie Coffman and Teresa Baugh; and her brother, Robert (Carolyn) Smith.
Per wishes, cremation has been accorded, and there will be no services at this time. Friends are welcome to join the family for a potluck memorial dinner that will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 1:00PM at the Seymour Community Center. The family has asked that everyone bring something to share. Burial next to her husband Ken, will be held at Highland Cemetery in Mystic at a later date. Memorials may be made to Brenda Barrell, to be designated at a later date, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Vandermark Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
What’s your fondest memory of Helen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Helen?
Share a story where Helen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Helen you’ll never forget.
How did Helen make you smile?