Carol Joy Van Eldik

Gainesville – Carol Joy Van Eldik, 89, died on August 24, 2018 at Oak Hammock, Gainesville, Fl., following an extended illness. Carol (Smeelink) was born December 28, 1928 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was one of three children of Joseph and Esther Smeelink. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Leroy Van Eldik, who passed away in March 2013. Carol and Dick met at Calvin College in Grand Rapids MI, and they were married for 62 years. Carol began her career as a registered nurse in Grand Rapids, then focused on being a wife and mother after moving to Lake Worth FL. She was the rock of the family, loved unconditionally, and raised all her four children to be caring and responsible adults. Carol was active in the City of Atlantis, the Lake Worth Christian School, and the Lake Worth Christian Reformed Church. Carol and Dick moved to the Oak Hammock community in Gainesville in 2007, where they flourished and developed many close friendships. Carol loved life, made friends easily and enjoyed participating in many activities at Oak Hammock, such as going for walks to the dog park with her beloved dog Casey, singing in the choir, attending movie night, having a pre-dinner cocktail in the lounge. She was a friend and helper to many, and all of us will miss her dearly. Carol is survived by her four children: Linda Jo Van Eldik PhD of Lexington KY, Richard Bruce Van Eldik MD of Ocala FL, Laurie Kay Davies MD of Gainesville FL, and Michael John Van Eldik of Palm Bay FL. She is also survived by her brother Jud Smeelink and sister Lorraine Zeeuw, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and her beloved caretaker and friend Shirley Payton. Her family wishes to thank the staff of Oak Hammock for their care and kindness during the last months of her life and to Haven Hospice for their expertise in her final days. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 106 SW 3rd St, Gainesville with The Rev Dr. Robert Shettler officiating. Burial will follow in Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL. at 2:00 p.m. Arrangements are under the care of Williams-Thomas Funeral Home Downtown. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Canine Companions for Independence. P.O. Box 446, Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446,

Carol Joy Van Eldik

December 28, 1928 - August 24, 2018