Richard Leon Vance Obituary (2025)

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Richard "Dick" Vance, age 82, on February 26, 2025. He was born on April 8, 1942, in Yakima, Washington. Dick was the beloved son of Menyard and Lavesta Kerns-Vance. He grew up alongside his sisters, Phylis Vance Cooper and Mary Vance Hogsett, in a home filled with faith, hard work, and humor. Dick and his lifelong partner, Sharon Lovestrand, were classmates who graduated from West Valley Highschool in 1960. Following graduation, Dick honorable served in the United States Navy abroad the USS Midway. Upon returning to Yakima, he married Sharon on June 8, 1963, at the newly built Wiley Heights Covenant Church, marking the beginning of a 61-year partnership. A devoted family man, Dick and Sharon initially resided in Seattle, where Dick worked for Boeing and where their three children were born. The family later returned to Yakima, where Dick dedicated 20 years to orchard farming, cultivating apples and pears on their West Valley farm. He subsequently worked at Akland Irrigation until his retirement, forming lasting friendships with colleagues and customers alike. In 1986, Dick and Sharon opened Boehm's Candy Store, a cherished local establishment that brought joy to the community for 33 years. Their passion for chocolates and warm hospitality created a welcoming environment where friendships flourished. An avid Chevrolet enthusiast, Dick found great joy in restoring classic cars and trucks. He spent countless hours in his automotive shop with his sons, imparting his extensive knowledge and skills. Proud of his collection of five classic cars, Dick loved showcasing and driving them around the town. He believed in second chances for both objects and people and often expressed his conviction that "women should run the world," reflecting his commitment to equality. Dick's love for his family boundless. He cherished hosting apple cider parties and celebrating holidays like the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve. Some of his most treasured moments were spent with his three grandchildren, who delighted in rides in his classic cars. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Menyard and Lavesta Vance, and his sister, Phyllis Vance Cooper. He is survived by his loving wife Sharon Lovestrand-Vance, his sister, Mary Vance-Hogsett, his daughter, Marci Vance Venable (Rod), his sons, Darin Vance and Ryan Vance (Cheryl) of California, his grandchildren, Madi Vance and Emma Vance of Portland, Oregon, and Jack Vance of California; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members, including Michelle Batz, and Don Capps. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 11:00am at Wiley Heights Covenant Church (12504 Gilbert Rd, Yakima, WA), followed by a luncheon. A private family inurnment graveside will take place prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wiley Heights Covenant Church or a charity of your choice and sent in care of Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory (PO Box 1267, Moxee, WA, 98936) who is caring for the family. Arrangements by Brookside Funeral Home. Memories of Dick and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.