Lillian Grace (Cummings) Vanter

Lillian Grace Vanter, 96, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, November 5, 2017, at the Lutheran Home in Strawberry Point.  She was born on July 15, 1921, in Waverly, the youngest of five children born to Roy and Nellie Cummings.  Lillian was baptized at the Presbyterian Church in Maynard.  Lillian completed 12 years of school at Maynard Consolidated, graduating in 1939.  After taking summer classes at Upper Iowa, Lillian taught country school in Hawkeye and Westgate.

Lillian married Marvin Fox on May 10, 1941.  To this union one son, Richard, was born.  Marvin passed away in July 1943.

In August 1950, Lillian was united in marriage to John Vanter.  Three children were blessed to this union, Gary, Gordon, and Mary. John Vanter passed away in 1958.

Lillian continued with her education and graduated with a bachelor of arts degree from Upper Iowa University.  She taught in the surrounding areas and retired from Strawberry Point School System in 1981 after 21 years.

Lillian loved her family and enjoyed playing cards.  She liked being on the computer and especially enjoyed Facebook.  Lillian was an avid reader until her eyesight weakened.  Dr. Thompson described her as a “very resilient lady”. 

Lillian was a member of the United Methodist Church and taught Sunday School for many years.  She was also a member of the United Methodist Women.  Lillian was a member of the Red Hat Charmers, the Flintridge Club, and C & S Club.

Survivors include her two sons, Richard (Mary) Fox of Iowa City and Gary Vanter of Cedar Rapids; one daughter, Mary (Donald) Prussel of Strawberry Point; a daughter-in-law, Vicki Vanter; one grandson, John (Kellie) Wagner; three granddaughters, Kristi (Matt) March, Wendi Vanter, and Jennifer Wagner; six great-grandchildren, Zach, Lily, Hannah, Jace, Seamus, and Elijah; and many nieces and nephews.

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Gordon Vanter; her husbands, Marvin Fox and John Vanter; three sisters, Florence, Mildred, and Alice; and one brother, Roland.

The family wishes to thank the St. Croix Hospice for all of their special care given to Lillian.

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