Cory VanDeveer

Cory D. VanDeveer (March 31, 1971 – October 18, 2025) was born in Arcola, Illinois, the eldest child of Sandra (Loughary) and Carl VanDeveer Jr. His mother preceded him in death. He is survived by his children, Brock, Renn, and Nelly VanDeveer; Dana VanDeveer-Jones (children's mother) and Matt Jones; his longtime loving companion, Julie Strazinsky; his sister, Allison (Nate) Cox; nephew Hayden West; niece Harper Cox; and his father, Carl.

Cory graduated from Arcola High School in 1989 and had fond memories of playing football with friends and earning the 1A State Championship in the fall of 1988. He developed a strong work ethic as a teenager working for Titus Hog Farm and later JER Overhaul, which would serve him well throughout his life. After graduating from Southern Illinois University in 1994, he worked in restaurant management and sales for Worden Martin, before founding The Handyman Property Maintenance Service in 2006, realizing his dream of entrepreneurship.

From a young age, Cory exuded confidence, never knew a stranger, and was unafraid to take on new challenges. His family fondly recalls the memory of him attending an auction as a five-year-old with his grandfather, where he confidently submitted a bid without any prompting. His grandfather, impressed, proudly paid for the item. He will be remembered for his infectious personality, charm, and quick wit as he made each person he encountered feel important. 

Nothing was more important to Cory than his children. Cory’s pride in Brock, Renn, and Nelly was evident as his eyes lit up whenever he saw them or spoke of them. He was most proud to attend their events from piano recitals, gymnastic meets, and volleyball games to high school and college football. He showed his love through shared meals, always eager to try new restaurants or cook for family gatherings. 

There will be a visitation on Monday, Oct 27, from 4-6 pm at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St, Champaign. The funeral service will begin at 6pm. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cory VanDeveer, please visit our floral store.