Vernon Lance

Vernon M. “ Tex” Lance,  at the age of 91, of Rodney, MI, passed away October 27, 2016, at Autumnwood of McBain, MI.

Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, 104 East Cass St, St. Johns, MI, on Monday, October 31, 2016 at 1:00 PM.  The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 30, 2016 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the funeral home.  Burial will take place at Deepdale Memorial Gardens, Lansing, MI on Tuesday, November 1, 2016 at 11:30 A.M.

Vernon was born the second son of Harry and Isabelle (Hopkins) Lance in St. Johns, MI on September 20, 1925.  He grew up in St. Johns, MI and attended St. Johns Public Schools.  On January 18, 1947 he married Dorothy Troon in Lansing, MI; she preceded him in death in 1995. He then married Violet Anderson in 1997 in Big Rapids, MI.

Vernon served during World War II in the United States Army.  When he left the Army, he found employment with Oldsmobile in Lansing, MI and worked there for 31 years until he retired in 1980. Through his years he enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing, hunting, and watching the Detroit Lions and Tigers. He was a member of Moose, Elks, Eagles, VFW, and The American Legion.

Vernon is survived by his wife Violet, daughters; Thomas “Deb” Lance and her partner Tammy of Culleoka, TN, and Mary Lance of Russellville, AR., sons; Jerry Lance of Rodney, MI and Gregory (Debra) Lance of Lansing, MI, 6 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Dorothy, daughter Pamela in 1949, son James in 1994, 3 brothers; Frederick, LeRoy, and Richard, and 3 sisters, Molice, Betty and Shirley.

Memorials may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project.  Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.