Nelson L. Vance

Nelson L. Vance

March 21, 1930 – February 6, 2025

Nelson Lee Vance, 94, of Elery, Ohio passed away Thursday evening, February 6, 2025 at the Meadows of Leipsic, Leipsic, Ohio.

He was born March 21, 1930 in Henry County, Ohio to the late Clyde and Blanche (Fackler) Vance.  Nelson was a 1948 graduate of Hamler High School and also served his country in the Ohio National Guard.  On January 28, 1952 he married Shirley Jean (Ward) Vance and they were together for over 64 years before Shirley preceded him in death on November 17, 2016.

At a young age, Nelson worked at the former Honeck Tile Company in Elery.  He witnessed changes from clay tile to plastic tile and the company was eventually purchased by ADS, Napoleon.  He continued working as a dispatcher and supervisor until his retirement in 1993.  To keep himself busy after retirement he enjoyed driving and hauling carrots and potatoes for Rohrs Bros. Farms.

Nelson was a member of Harvest Fellowship Church, Hamler; the Bevelhymer-Gilliland American Legion Post #400; and the Napoleon Moose Lodge #788.  When at home, Nelson could be found watching his favorite western shows and movies or doing a word search.  His family will remember him for his love and dedication as a husband and father; and how much he adored all his grandchildren.

He is survived by 6 children, Tom Vance; Bill Vance; Rick (Cathy) Vance; Jeff (Lori) Vance; Beverly (Steven) Diem; Diane Vance; son-in-law, Rick Curtis; 16 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; 3 sisters, Lois Rettig; Naomi McKinnis and Phyllis Farber.

He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Jeanie Curtis; son, James; daughter-in-law, Nancy Vance; sisters, Virginia Meyers; Leona Krumbaugh and brothers, Orland; Lewis; Raymond; Herbert; Lloyd.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at Harvest Fellowship Church, Hamler with Pastor James Erven officiating.  Graveside services will be in Hoy Cemetery, Napoleon and a luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. on Monday, February 17, 2025 at Feehan-Rodenberger Funeral Home, Deshler and from 10-11 a.m., Tuesday prior to the services at the church.

The family suggests memorials to the Harvest Fellowship Church.

Memories and messages can be shared with his family at www.feehanrodenbergerfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nelson L. Vance, please visit our floral store.