Keith O. Vardaman, 78, Nappanee, passed away unexpectedly from natural causes on Thursday, May 11, 2017. 

He was born Oct. 20, 1938 in Fort Wayne to Delbert and Nina (Jackson) Vardaman. He grew up in Fort Wayne, until he was in middle school, and then moved to Pomona, Calif. Keith served in Alternate Service for two years in Maryland and Elgin, Ill. 

On June 10, 1961 he married Janet Arnold in Elgin, Ill. Keith went to College at Manchester where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree. He later got his Master’s Degree at Ball State.  Keith taught at Bluffton High School. Keith and Janet enjoyed taking their family on trips during the summers. He loved to travel and going on cruises.  He also enjoyed wood crafting, and building pieces for the home. Keith volunteered at Camp Mack. 

He was involved with Disaster Relief in Florida and the Dominican Republic. Keith loved history, especially the Civil War, and going to historical sites.

He is survived by his wife, Janet; son, Kurtis (Lisa) Vardaman, Nappanee; granddaughters, Kayla Carney, Fort Myers, Fla.; Katie Carney, Appleton, Wisc.; brothers Wayne (Kay) Vardaman, Decatur; Bob Vardaman, Modesto, Calif.; and a sister, Sharon Baker, Fort Wayne. 

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kathy George, grandson, Michael Andrew “Andy” George, parents, and brothers, Gene and Paul Vardaman.

Family and friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., Monday, May 15 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee and one hour prior to the 11 a.m. funeral service, Tuesday, May 16 at Creekside Church of the Brethren (60455 C.R. 113, Elkhart).  Pastor Elizabeth Kelsey will officiate. 

Cremation will follow services with Inurnment at Union Center Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to Camp Mack (PO Box 158, Milford, Indiana, 46542).