Our family is heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved mother, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend.

Kim Aldean (Ames) Vaca passed away with her family by her side on January 22, 2026, at the age of 69 years old. She was born on August 4, 1956 in Springfield, Illinois. She was born to James Vernon Ames and Judith (Fields) Ames. She grew up in Petersburg, Illinois. She then moved to Plymouth, Indiana in 1978.

On September 27, 1980, she married Alfredo G. Vaca. For 45 years they built a life filled with laughter, love and devotion. Their enduring love for one another was evident to all who knew them.

Kim worked for Headstart in Plymouth for over 10 years as a assistant teacher. In those years she developed some of her best friendships. She loved working with children. She had a deep passion for fostering growth, providing emotional support, and acting as a consistent, nurturing presence in the classroom. Although, her most important job was a housewife/homemaker caring for her family.

Camping was always one of Kim's favorite things to do with her family. She spent many happy weekends with family & friends at Broken Arrow Campground, making memories that will last a lifetime. She enjoyed playing cards with the grandkids and games on her ipad. She always had a card trick to amaze the grandkids with. She also loved feeding and watching birds. Birds gave her a sense of peace & comfort. Kim loved to show her love with home cooked meals. She was the Queen of comfort food. She made sure her kids & grandkids never left the house hungry.

Her love for family knew no bounds. She created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. She lived a life marked my compassion, strength, and a deep devotion to her family. Kim was known for her kind heart and the ability to make anyone feel welcome.

Kim is survived by her husband - Alfredo G. Vaca of Plymouth, Indiana.

Daughters - Jennifer Shilling (Brandon) of Walkerton, Rachel Flora (Ralph) of Rochester, Domitila Vaca (Timmy) of Wakarusa

Son - James Vaca (Clarissa Shane) of Plymouth

Fur babies - Teeny & Thor

14 Grandchildren- Cameron, Evan, Xavier, Victor (Kaleigh), Brianna (Dakota), Colten, Nicholas, Alejandra, Sophia, Caden, Trevor, Lettie, Logan and Oliver. 5 Great Grandchildren- Briahson, Meara, Neveah, Leah and Berklee

Brothers - Kevin (Nancy) Ames of Plymouth, IN and Vernon (Janey) Ames of Petersburg, IL

Sisters - Pat Gillmore of Petersburg, IL and Sandy Shockey of Petersburg, IL

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved daughter, Brooke. As well as many close Aunts, Uncles & Cousins and her beloved fur baby Susie.

Kim's wishes was to be cremated and to be buried with her husband when he passes.

A memorial service and celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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