Richard L. Vance

Richard “Dick” L. Vance, age 94, of Sunnyside went to be with his beloved, wife Maurine on August 28, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.  Richard was born on January 29, 1923 in Kansas City, MO, the son of Nellie Cornelia (Hollister) and James Claude Vance.  He grew up and received his basic education in Kansas City, MO. Richard then attended and graduated from Iowa State University with a B.A. Degree in Animal Husbandry.  In April of 1944 Dick entered the Army Air Corps, serving his country until he retired from the United States Air Force as a Lt. Col in January of 1983.  While serving in Alaska as a pilot, Richard met the love of his life, Maurine Barton, who was an Army Air Corps flight nurse.  They were married on April 2, 1946 at the First Baptist Church in Bruce, Mississippi.  Following his military duty, Richard became a cattle buyer for the Cudahy Packing Company in Omaha, Nebraska until the company moved him to Sunnyside in the summer of 1967. He then became a farm market analyst for the state of Washington, retiring at the age of 65.  Besides being an Eagle Scout, he was a dedicated Boy Scout Leader for many years. Richard was also an active member of both the American Legion and V.F.W.  He enjoyed the outdoors and spent countless hours fishing and traveling in the United States with his sweetheart, Maurine.

Richard is survived by three children, James Vance (Becky) of Spotsylvania, VA, Jack Vance (Suzanne) of Lake of the Ozarks, MO, and Janet Dunning (Carl) of Issaquah, WA.   He is also survived by five grandchildren, ten great grandchildren (with one more on the way).  He is preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife, Maurine, Sister Mary Elizabeth Gordon and Brother Don Vance. 

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel, Sunnyside with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers those wishing to honor Richard’s memory may contribute to the Sunnyside Presbyterian Church.  Those wishing to sign Richard’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home who is in care of arrangements.

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