This past week saw the passing of two long-time Anderson residents and contributors to the community—Elaine Vandevert and Adelbert “Del” Withee.

Vandevert died Saturday at Mercy Medical Center in Redding after suffering a stroke. She worked for the city as a parttime clerk from 1995 until 2001 and received a Senior Citizen of the Year Award from the Anderson Chamber of Commerce. Vandevert lived in Anderson since 1977 and was 81 when she died.

“She was always at fundraisers and worked with the Citizens on Patrol. She was also an active volunteer with the Animal Services right up until her death,” said Anderson Mayor Keith Webster.

According to Webster, there will not be a formal service for Vandevert, but her family will probably hold an open house at her well-known Victorian house on Ferry Street.

Del Withee died last Wednesday at 94. Withee served on the Anderson City Council for 16 years, including a term as mayor. He also served on the Anderson Fire Protection District Board of Directors.

“I’ve known him for a lot of years. We both lived on Howard Street. He’s left quite a legacy,” said Webster.

A chapel service for Withee will be held Feb. 19, 10 a.m. at the Lawncrest Chapel, 1522 E. Cypress in Redding.

“These are people who made a difference in Anderson. It’s a void that they’ve left in our community. We thank them for their service,” Webster said of Vandevert and Withee.