Carol J. Vanvelzor

Carol J. Vanvelzor 85 of Lancaster, Ohio former longtime resident of Thurston passed away on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at the Pickering House. She was born on August 17, 1939 in Lancaster, Ohio to the late Charles and Hazel Ruckman, Sr. Carol was a Thurston High School Graduate Class of 1957.

Carol retired from the Baltimore Paper Mill with over 44 years of service in the office. She loved her flowers, gardening and taking care of her fish pond. She won the contest for the best Christmas lights in Thurston. She would get up every morning and go over to take care of her mother’s hair and get her ready for the day prior to going to work.

She is one of 12 children and is survived by her brother, Richard Ruckman of Thurston; sister, Pat Heistand of Lancaster and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the Bickford and the Pickering House for their love and care of Carol.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband of 51years, Robert E. Vanvelzor, parents, brothers, Howard E. Ruckman, Charles Ruckman, Jr., Paul Ruckman, Don Ruckman, William Ruckman, Robert Ruckman, Fred Ruckman, sisters, Louella Baughman and Louise Franklin.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 1:00 P.m. at Floral Hills Memory Gardens with Chaplain Mark Linn officiating. Arrangements are being handled by the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME, LANCASTER, OHIO.

Memorial gifts may be given to Fairhope Hospice, 282 Sells Rd., Lancaster, Ohio 43130.

To send an online condolence, and sign the guest book, please visit www.funeralhome.com.