Theodore Van Iderstine

Theodore Joseph Van Iderstine, fondly known as Ted, passed away on January 6, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on March 5, 1936, in Lakeland, Florida, Ted lived in several locations over the years before making a home in West Bend for over 30 years.

Ted was not only a brilliant engineer, having graduated from MIT in 1962, but he was also a man of many passions. His contributions to the community were significant; he was a dedicated member of the West Bend Baptist Church and knew Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. Ted held perfect attendance in the Rotary Club for over 50 years. Many will remember Ted as the longstanding President and Treasurer of the Clarke-Washington Fair Board, where his leadership and enthusiasm inspired countless others.

Travel was a shared joy for Ted and his beloved wife, Carolyn. Ted was an instrument rated pilot and together they soared across this great nation, creating memories that they cherished together. In addition to his love for flying, Ted's amateur call sign was W4ADU and Carolyn's is N5MUU, together they explored the fascinating world of amateur radio, or ham radio, spending years meeting fellow enthusiasts, even traveling as far as Alaska to share their passion with others. A cherished hobby of Ted was his love of model trains, a passion he inherited from his father and passed to his son.

Ted is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore Leonard & Vera Van Iderstine. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 59 years, Carolyn Stringer Van Iderstine; sons, Theodore Van Iderstine and Eric Van Iderstine (Johanna); sister, Alida Grady; seven grandchildren, Dawn, Andrew, Reagan, James, Nathan, Grace, and Shiloh; as well as a host of friends, acquaintances, and loved ones.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026 at West Bend Baptist Church at 11:30 a.m. with Bro. Irby Weaver officiating. The family will welcome friends and loved ones from beginning at 11:00 a.m..

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ted's memory to Jackson Area Rotary Club, P.O. Box 22, Jackson, AL 36545.

Please check back soon for Ted's completed arrangements.