December 10, 2020
Blanche VanDam passed away Tuesday night December 8, 2020 at her residence. She was born September 13, 1945 in Patterson, New Jersey. Ms. Blanche was preceded in death by her mother, Blanch Haywood VanDam and a brother, Angelo “Butch” Onorato. She was a factory worker and also worked in nursing at NHC and DeKalb Hospital. She is survived by 5 children, John Knauer of Smithville; Gloria England of Rock Island, Marily Doty of Colorado, Bob Irvine of Iowa and Heather Irvine of Smithville; 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews also survive. The family has chosen a direct cremation and a Memorial Service will be held 2 PM Saturday, December 12, 2020 at Bethlehem Community Church with Bro. Steve Keaton officiating. Due to Covid-19 and social distancing guidelines, we ask for the health and safety of everyone that you please exercise social distancing. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.