Everett Guy Vance, 94, of Tonasket, passed away Dec. 29, 2009, at the Wenatchee Valley Hospital, following complications from the return of prostate cancer treated previously in 1996.

He was born Nov. 18, 1915, near Hartline, Wash., to Guy and Kate Vance. The oldest of four children, he spent his childhood on the family ranches. He attended grade school at the Lone Pine School at South Leahy, Wash. In 1930, the family moved to Aeneas Valley so the children could attend schools in Tonasket. Everett attended four years of high school there and graduated in 1934, after which, he attended Kinman Business School in Spokane for one year. Upon his return to Tonasket, he worked at the First National Bank for a time. In 1937, he met his future wife at a dance at Wauconda. He married Erna Rose Helm on March 12, 1938. They were married for 59 years until her death in 1997. He had several jobs prior to ownership and working in the service station business. They lived “in town”, where their four children were born. In 1957, they purchased an orchard south of Tonasket and farmed there for over 40 years. He had continued to farm with son, Norman, and danced regularly, even until the past few months. The past two years, he has lived at the Tonasket Assisted Living, five months during the winter, with enjoyment of staff, residents and the convenience of location and meals!

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Clifford; and one grandson, Ryan.

Survivors include one brother, Arnold of Richland; one sister, Vera of Vancouver; one daughter, Patty of Longview, Texas; and three sons: Monte of Okanogan, Norman of Riverside and Larry of Cashmere. There are nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Everett’s life was spent being a good husband, father and provider for his family. Work was the primary focus of his life. He was very vocal about his belief in God and His son, Jesus. During the last hours he could speak, he spoke to those at the hospital of these things, his love and thankfulness. Special thanks go to all the medical professionals at the Wenatchee Valley Clinic and Hospital for their loving care.

A memorial service for both Everett and Erna Vance will be held at the Tonasket Community Church on Saturday, March 20 at 11 a.m., with a gathering of remembrance and fellowship to follow at the church fellowship hall. Burial will be in the Tonasket Cemetery. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to all those sending cards and showing such kindness since their father’s death.

Bergh Funeral Service of Oroville/Tonasket in care of arrangements.