Elmer "Ted" Vanderkin

Elmer “Ted” Vanderkin, Jr., age 92 of Waupun, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at Prairie Ridge Assisted Living.  

Ted was born on July 28, 1933, in the township of Chester, the son of Lulu Belle (Moore) and Elmer Theodore Vanderkin, Sr. He graduated from Waupun High School in 1951. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army. On September 16, 1961, he was united in marriage to his wife, Beth Redeker in Waupun. The couple resided in Waupun for all of their married lives together. Ted worked for Capitol City Tree Trimmers before becoming employed with the Carnation Can Company/Silgan for 35 years. Ted was an excellent woodworker, carving many ducks and songbirds. He also built furniture, such as tables, gun cabinets, bookshelves, and children's furniture. He was a caring and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished time spent with his family. He wintered with his wife in Florida for 28 years. He enjoyed many vacations with his family up north on various lakes. Ted was a member of Emmanuel Reformed Church in Waupun. He served as a deacon and an elder for many years. 

Ted is survived by his wife, Beth Vanderkin of Waupun; children, Jeffrey S. (Leigh) Vanderkin of Johnson City, TN, Tracey Vanderkin of Flagstaff, AZ, Jill Vanderkin (Cooper Schraudenbach) of Flagstaff, AZ; seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild; his brother, David (Nancy) Vanderkin of Waupun; and further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Bill, John, and Larry; four sisters, Jean Taffner, Phyllis Smedema, Priscilla Engstrom, and Mary Kehrmeyer; three nephews, Ronnie Vande Zande, Johnny Vanderkin, and Rick Engstrom; and other relatives.  

Funeral services for Ted Vanderkin will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Werner Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun with Pastor Gwen Loomans officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Mound Cemetery in Waupun. Friends and relatives may call on the family on Monday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at noon.