Vance R. Cheeseman
Vance R Cheeseman, a man who was devoted to his family and faith, died on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Vance, 95, of Vermontville, was born on May 23, 1929, in Kalamo Twp., the son of William and Bertha (Goodwin-Becraft) Cheeseman. After his father suffered a heart attack when Vance was 13, he took over running the family farm. This was a dream for Vance because he had always wanted to be a farmer. At the age of 19 after an extended illness, he had to stop farming. While he was sick his aunt gave him a radio and after listening to programs like the Grand Ole Opry and Louisiana Hayride, he realized his true passion was playing the steel guitar. Vance was well known by local musicians and came to the attention of several famous country music stars from Nashville, who wanted him to join their studio bands. In 1956 Vance married the love of his life, Nancy Blackburn, and together they started a family. Vance used his knowledge from toying around on the farm as a kid to build his own pedal steel guitar by hand. At the time, Gibson had interest in his design, but were not willing to pay him. From an early age Vance devoted his life to his faith. He was a founding member of the Jehovah’s Witness congregation in Charlotte. He was actively involved in the design and purchase of the Kingdom Hall on VanLieu St. Vance was proud that in his late 90s he was fully independent and was able to still tend to his yard and take care of his property.
Vance is survived by his daughter, Penny (Ronald) Carrero; granddaughter, Lyndi Carrero; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Nancy; his parents, William and Bertha Cheeseman; and numerous siblings and extended family members.
Friends are encouraged to support Vance’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Interment will be at Kalamo Hillside Cemetery in Vermontville. The family will be having a Celebration of Life for Vance at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Charlotte at 40 N. Chester Road on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., with Elder Jeff Teachout officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the local congregation in person or at donate.jw.org
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.