Robert Carl Vance

On a cold day in December 1935, a little boy was born in Kentucky, and the world would not be the same. He was very bright, he loved to read and learn about anything he could. Being in an orphanage for a time was difficult, but dad learned to be tough, too. He got very good at being observant about people and things. But his favorite person and greatest teacher, was his Dad. He often spoke of how grateful he was for all the times his dad took him fishing and hunting. He taught him all he knew about being a baker and that would serve him well later.

To say our Dad was ‘well rounded’ would be an understatement. He was many years a baker, decades a carpenter, and even sold insurance. He loved helping little kids in the school cafeteria and as their crossing guard. For many years he loved driving people for Aging Services, he studied very hard and graduated from The Utah College of Massage Therapy in his sixties. The number of people he helped and served could not be counted: the neighbors, co-workers, strangers, family and friends. If my dad could be there for you, he was there. Even if it was just to sit with a friend in a café and have a cup of coffee.

Ramona was the love of his life. They were married for 48 years. The house he put so much work into is an example of his love for her. But Dad often said, ‘I know how to build a house, but Ramona makes it a home’. We will all cherish the countless gatherings, Thanksgivings, and Sunday dinners we had in that home. Although later, he was sick himself, Dad made Ramona a promise that he would take care of her every day and not pass away first; he was very proud that he kept his promise. He was 89 years old and passed away peacefully on what would have been their 49th anniversary. I’ll bet he was so excited to see her again.

Yes, we are sorry for every waitress in every café in the Tri-State area, for the loss in tips. However, we are relieved that they no longer have to endure his bad jokes anymore, which undoubtedly started with, ‘Did ya hear the one about…?

Born Dec 6, 1935, Robert Carl Vance Jr. to Robert Carl Vance Sr. and Edna Grant, in Kentucky. He passed away, August 22, 2025. He married Noreen Deaton, later divorced. He then married Ramona Hunter on August 22, 1976.

He was the last one to pass away in his family. His parents, and all seven of his siblings: Lou, Liz, Sue, Juanita, Delores, Mary and Joe, have each passed away.

He loved his children very much and helped them however he could. Kathy (Clarence), David (Denise), Michael (Laurel), Eric (Nadia) and step-son, Eddie (Jen Jen), whom he was very happy that he found us and we are too. He was very proud of his Grandchildren: Heather, Mary, CJ, Holly, Rachael, Jake, Samuel, and Jared. His great-grandchildren were also a joy that often kept him going.

There will be a small memorial service on Saturday, September 27th, at Memorial Estates at 6500 S Redwood Rd, West Jordan, UT at 2:00 o’clock pm.