Obituary of Jim Demy Vandermeer

James Derry Vandermeer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2019, with his loving wife of 55 years at his side.  Jim was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in 1936 to Dirk J. Vandermeer and Mary Derry Vandermeer and shared a close bond with his elder brother Robert.  He moved to Dallas with his family in 1949, graduated from Highland Park High School, and attended Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Business.  He returned to Dallas to build a career in commercial real estate development. He served his home church community at Highland Park Presbyterian Church in many capacities. A long-standing men’s Bible study and Sunday School teacher, he also served as a deacon and elder for many years.  

Most importantly, he knew and loved His Savior Jesus Christ and used his gifts to encourage others.  He regarded his relationships with friends and family as one of life’s greatest joys. He especially doted on his niece and nephews and his four grandsons.  Whether he was coaching soccer teams, preparing for Indian Princess campouts, or taking his grandsons to see the planes at Love Field, Jim made family his priority.  

He is survived by his wife Judy and his two daughters, Amy Allen and Catherine Thomas, her husband Bruce, and their sons, Sam, Charlie, Graham, and Jack. He is survived by his sister-in-law Karen and predeceased by his brother Robert.  He is also survived by his nephew David, his wife Molly, and their three sons Matthew, Jack, and Will; his nephew John, his wife Wendy, and their three children Emily, Marshall, and Hannah; his niece Diane Skaleski, her husband Jeff, and their daughter Anna; and his nephew Jake. 

A Memorial Service is planned for this Wednesday, November 20, at 3:30p.m. in the sanctuary of Highland Park Presbyterian Church, 3821 University Blvd. There will be a reception in the Parlor following the service. 

If desired Memorial donations may be made to Livada Orphan Care, at livada.org (noting that the gift is in honor of Jim Vandermeer) or by mail to Livada Orphan Care, 2001 W. Plano Parkway Suite 3430, Plano, TX 75075.