Gary D. Vance

Gary D. Vance passed away on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at the age of 83. Gary is survived by his sons, Jim Vance (Becky) and Carl Porter (Christine); daughters, Jennifer Kolkin (Steven) and Patti English (Scott); grandchildren Christopher and Matthew Vance; Alex, Andy and Adam Kolkin; Whitney Tabaie (Abe) and Tara English; Carl, Liz and Chad Porter; sister, Charlotte Marshall (Ken Kemerling); sister-in-law, Ski Vance; 6 nieces and nephews, and 7 great nieces and nephews. Gary was born in Smith Center, Kansas to loving parents George and Geraldine Vance on February 27, 1933. He graduated from Tucson High School in 1951 and went on to earn a BS in Business from the University of Arizona. After graduation, he joined the Army as a tank commander where he learned to "move, shoot and communicate." He went to work for Hughes Aircraft in 1958 and after 30 years retired as the Business Director of the TOW Missile Project. Following his retirement, he built a cabin near Philipsburg, Montana where family and friends visited him often to hike, fish, and enjoy the wildlife and scenery. He dearly loved his neighbors on Rock Creek. Gary was happiest when he was cooking for a crowd and surrounded by loved ones. He had 10 grandchildren of his own, and was "Granddad" to many more, all of whom adored him. He lived every day to the fullest and touched countless lives along the way. He taught us to love each other passionately and unconditionally. Gary's presence was larger than life—we will miss him immensely. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Dave, and his wife, Beverly. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Gary's memory to your favorite charity.