Helen Catherine Vandermark

December 28, 2009

Helen Catherine Vandermark passed away on December 28, 2009. She was born on April 26, 1930. Helen passed away peacefully with her daughters at her side, in the way she had lived, with dignity and grace, surrounded by love. Helen grew up in Pittston, the seventh child of Irene and Luigi DeVergilio's eight children, all of whom predeceased her. She was a graduate of Pittston High School and a member of the Second Presbyterian Church, Pittston, for 65 years. She was a former volunteer for the American Heart Association and a former member of the West Pittston Women's Club. For several years, Helen displayed her culinary expertise in the test kitchen at Bevaco. Her proudest accomplishment was raising her two daughters. Helen lived a rich and fascinating life. She was a wonderful storyteller and loved entertaining guests at dinner parties. She was an outspoken, lifelong Democrat who instilled a strong sense of social justice in her daughters and grandchildren regarding race, ethnicity, organized labor and women's issues. At the age of 65, Helen began a new chapter in her life by moving to south Florida. Knowing that "with God all things are possible," she acquired her dream home, became an avid golfer, won her first trophy with a local women's golf club, and traveled to the Caribbean, Mexico, Italy and the southeastern United States. She summered in New England, traveling by ferry between her daughters' homes in Connecticut and New York, where she enjoyed the Hampton's beaches, Fairfield Beach and Block Island. She thrived during her stay on the campus of Smith College, in Northampton, Mass., where she met students and professors from all over the world. Helen courageously battled illness with strength, grace and a steadfast faith. Her formidable spirit is an inspiration to everyone who experienced the pure joy of being in her presence. The memory of Helen's loud and contagious laughter will be reflected in the smiles of her children's children. Helen was preceded in death by, Emmit, her loving husband of 36 years. She is survived by her daughter, Lynne and husband, Stephen Cast; her daughter, Nancy and husband, Jay Shaw; and five beloved grandchildren, Peter and Helena Castellino; Sarah, Bethany and Charity Cast; and her cherished nieces, nephews and friends in Florida and Pennsylvania. A public service and wake were held at the Kraeer Funeral Home in Coral Springs, Fla. In honor of Helen's 80th birthday, today , plant a perennial in your garden. Contributions may be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Center, where a fund has been established in Helen's memory ( www.stjudetribute.org ), and the Second Presbyterian Church. Her closest friends and family members, with her until the end of her life, know that "Helen Vandermark died living!"