William C. Vance
William “Bill” Clayton Vance — a selfless and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend — died peacefully on Saturday, January 25, 2020, in Kalamazoo. Bill was born November 14, 1962, in Charleston, WV, the son of Clarence Wesley and Gay (Kessinger) Vance. The family moved to Potterville in 1964, where Bill graduated high school in 1980. He went to work at Spartan Motors, starting on the line and working his way up to supervisor.
Bill was most at peace in the outdoors. His greatest passions including hunting and fishing, as well as NASCAR. He and Sue held season race tickets for 10 years, camping on the infield and traveling to Bristol. He played baseball at Spartan Motors and enjoyed bowling. Bill was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the Detroit Lions. He collected guns and knives and was fanatical about paranormal activity, especially theories on aliens and sasquatch. The family also spent time at their cabin on Narrow Lake, where Bill was usually the pontoon boat captain. All who knew Bill loved him. Many will remember his strength, his love for family and for always having a candy bar ready for his grandson Cooper.
Bill is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sue; daughters, Tabitha Vance and Billi Jean (fiancé Cody Hennaut) Vance; grandson, Cooper Hennaut; five sisters, Nancy (Patrick) Pung, Brenda (Charles) Tomlinson, Chris (Steve) Morris, Terri (Joe) Jenson, and Rita Poyer; godson, Maverick Kreps; best friend for life, Charlie Berryhill; and his dog, Mia. He was predeceased by his parents; brother-in-law, Brian Poyer; and his dog, Hunter.
Friends are encouraged to support Bill’s family. A memorial service was held on January 30, 2020, at Pray Funeral Home with Bill’s uncle, Rev. James Vance officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the family in the care of the Pray Funeral Home. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Bill on his tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.