Michael "Mike" Vance

Michael "Mike" Vance, a man known for his quick wit and wicked sense of humor, took his final curtain call on April 28, 2023, at the age of 57. Born on December 16, 1965, in Kansas City, KS. He passed away in Topeka, KS, but not before leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Mike is survived by a loving, laughter-filled family who will miss him dearly. His wife, JoAnna, his son, Cody, and daughter-in-law, Sara, will forever cherish the memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and love, especially those shared with their son, Rowan, who was Mike's pride and joy. Mike's daughter, Conner, will always remember the silly moments they shared and the life lessons he taught her. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Ronald, who we can only assume has been waiting for him.

Mike's mother, Ethel, and sisters, Rhonda (Dennis) Keegan and Angela Vance, will fondly remember the times when Mike could turn even the most mundane family dinner into a laugh-out-loud event. His nieces and nephews, Nicole Norwood (Bill, and their children Madison and Allison), Michelle Cooper (Ed, and her son Maddox), and Jessica Patzke (Jordan, and their sons Oliver and Owen) will always remember their hilarious Uncle Mike, who had a knack for making everyone feel special and loved through laughter.

After graduating from Shawnee Heights High School in 1984, Mike went on to become a Carpenter. His coworkers will remember him as someone who could make even the most stressful workday enjoyable with his humor and creativity. Mike's ability to find the good in any situation made him not only a talented carpenter but also a beloved friend and colleague.

Mike's interests were as diverse as his sense of humor. He loved spending time with his grandson, family, and friends, often cracking jokes and sharing stories that brought everyone closer together. Golf and fishing were some of his favorite pastimes, which he enjoyed with both his family and friends. As a die-hard KC Chiefs and Royals fan, Mike was often seen sporting their colors and cheering them on with his trademark enthusiasm and wit.

Working on cars, yard work, and helping out all his neighbors were also passions of Mike's, and he was known as the go-to guy for anything that needed fixing. His handy and creative nature was apparent in everything he did, and his neighbors knew they could count on Mike for a helping hand and a hearty laugh.

In remembering Mike, the words "handy," "creative," and "loving" come to mind, but those who knew him best would say that his true talent was in bringing people together through laughter. His infectious humor and warm heart made him a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend. While he may have left this world, his legacy of laughter will continue to bring joy to those who knew and loved him.

As we say our final goodbyes to Mike Vance, let us remember the joy he brought to our lives and the laughter that will forever echo in our hearts. We can imagine him now, cracking jokes with the angels and making even the most stoic of heavenly beings chuckle. So, as we gather to remember our beloved Mike, let's do so with laughter, love, and the knowledge that his spirit will forever live on in the smiles he brought to our faces.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held Friday, May 5th at Thunderbird Grill 5:30 pm-Midnight, 2920 SE Croco Road, Topeka, KS 66605, providing an opportunity for family and friends to come together and share their fondest memories of this remarkable man.

Rest in peace, Mike Vance. Your humor, warmth, and love will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.