Brother Carl Wesley VanMeter, a steadfast servant of Jesus Christ and a resident of rural Weleetka, peacefully entered eternal rest on May 15, 2024, in Henryetta at the age of 91. He was born Tuesday, November 29, 1932, in Checotah to devoted parents Dave VanMeter and Bessie (Emberson) VanMeter.
In his youth, Carl courageously served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. However, it was his later calling that truly defined his purpose. Transitioning from various occupations, including stagehand for Hollywood, Disney on Ice and NBC News. Carl found his true calling as a minister of the gospel alongside his beloved wife, Anita. Together, they established the Endtime Revival Church in their humble abode in Henryetta. Through their dedication to spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ, the church flourished from a storefront in Henryetta, eventually finding its home near the tree, where Carl often sought God in prayer.
Carl’s ministry extended beyond the pulpit; he and Anita founded Faith Christian Academy, a beacon of education infused with Christian values, and KVAZ 91.5 FM, a radio station broadcasting Southern gospel melodies. Their vision also gave birth to Van’s Country Store and the Frontlines Youth Camp, reflecting their commitment to nurturing the next generation in the love of Christ.
With a profound gift for interpreting the Word of God, Carl’s teachings resonated deeply with all who had the privilege of hearing him speak. His compassionate heart led him to minister to those incarcerated in a prison ministry in McAlester, Oklahoma, offering hope and salvation to countless souls.
He served on the Okmulgee County Rural Water District #5 for many years, was instrumental in helping to establish the Plainview Fire Department and designed their logo that is still in use today.
November 29, 1932 – May 15, 2024
He pursued the dream of becoming a pilot and enjoyed taking the little Cessna up to fly around the East Central Oklahoma area. He also enjoyed taking out his fishing boat out on the lake.
In the embrace of his Heavenly Father, Carl rejoins his beloved Anita, his parents, along with his great-great grandson, Jase Green, three brothers; David VanMeter, Vernon Van-Meter, Kenneth Van-Meter, and three sisters; Wanda Estep, Ruby Baker and Jean Johnson.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith and love in his surviving family, wife, Linda VanMeter of Tulsa, son, Carl Michael VanMeter and wife Jan of Weleetka, son, Gary Dale VanMeter of Weleetka, eight grandchildren who call him Papa, Jana Pullin and husband Kendric of Cuero, Texas, Lydia Swain and husband Chad of Grand Saline, Texas, Carl Michael VanMeter Jr. and wife April of Weleetka, Wesley Van-Meter and wife Martha of Weleetka, Amy Zamora & husband David of La Grange, Texas, Crystal Turner and husband James of Tulsa, Gary “Bub” VanMeter and wife Stephanie of Weleetka, and Nathen VanMeter and wife Alex of Henryetta, 27 great-grandchildren, 22 great-great-grandchildren, numerous bonus stepchildren, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as many other nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters in law and church family.
A celebration of Bro. VanMeter’s life and faith was held Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Endtime Revival Church. Following the service, he was laid to rest at Endtime Revival Church Cemetery, honored with military rites by the US Marines.
