Elaine VanDeventer Obituary

With great sorrow, the Zarley and Van Deventer families announce the passing of Elaine Marie Van Deventer, 73, of rural Baldwin City, Kansas on September 29, 2023. Elaine was surrounded by family, as she slipped away, to join her previously departed dogs, cats, and horses.

Elaine was born March 6, 1950, to William H. and Arlene E. Van Deventer in Wichita, KS. She attended St. Margaret Mary grade school and graduated from Mount Carmel Academy in 1968. She was hired as a teller at the Parklane National Bank and her career in banking had begun. Elaine graduated from Wichita State University while working at the bank. She moved to Lawrence, KS. and joined the Lawrence National Bank. Thru the many banking mergers and acquisitions, she achieved the position of Executive Vice President, which she held until she retired. Elaine was now free to devote the rest of her life to family, horses, dogs, cats, and gardening.

Elaine loved her Shetland Sheepdogs. From Spook, who was discovered living under her deck, to Nickel, and Luca, her current companions. Her house cat & barn cats kept her company as well. Elaine saved many stray dogs and cats and was adept at finding homes for all of them. She visited the local veterinarian so often that she worked for him in her spare time.

Gardening was a favorite past time for Elaine. She was a wonderful cook, and the fresh ingredients from her vegetable garden helped enhance her dishes. She experimented often with the variety of plants to attain the perfect flavor she desired. Her holiday meals gave great pleasure to family and friends. Elaine was fond of her flowering plants. Her flower beds contained countless colors and aromas that were visited frequently by hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. She was pleased when birds would nest in her flowering baskets and tree frogs took up residence in her garden. Elaine volunteered at a local nursery to enhance her expertise and share her knowledge concerning gardening.

Elaine was active in civic events in Lawrence. She coordinated the old fashion Christmas parade for many years. Complete with Christmas wagon and draft horses to her Shetland sheepdog dressed as "Rusty the reindeer" and everything in between.

Elaine is survived by her husband Richard M Zarley, brothers William H Van Deventer, and Robert W Van Deventer, and sister Cynthia L Stewart.

In typical Elaine fashion, there are no services planned, certainly no pomp and circumstance. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations would be made to Second Chance Animal Rescue Services (SCARS) PO Box 22 Auburn, KS 66402. Condolences may be sent to the family through www.lamb-roberts.com.