Lake Wales, FL - Michael Dale Vance, of Lake Wales, Florida, passed away on April 25th, 2026. Michael was born in Gulfport, MS, on February 13th, 1945, to Cloia and Alden Vance, but grew up in Raceland, KY.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sons, Michael "Scotty" Vance and Michael Sean Vance; his brother, Lester Vance; and his sister, Lavada Miller.

He is survived by his wife, Terry Vance; his daughter, Melissa Davis; his son, Marcus Vance; his stepdaughter, Carleigh Okwali, his brothers, Steve Vance and Jim Vance; his seven granddaughters and one grandson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will carry his memory forward.

But to know Michael was to know that a simple list of dates and names could never quite capture him. Michael Dale Vance was a storyteller, truly one of a kind. What he lacked in stature, he never lacked in stories. He could turn any conversation into a tale, some taller than others, and any moment into a memory. Some, he wrote down on paper in the form of a poem.

Whether reminiscing about the drag racing days at Sunny's Drive Inn, debating politics, or walking and talking for hours, Mike had a way of leaving an impression that stuck. He was, as many have said, "an original," a man with a big heart, a witty mind, and a voice that carried both sides of the conversation.

Michael was an outstanding athlete in his younger years and remained a devoted sports fan throughout his life, a loyal supporter of the Raceland Rams, and always eager to catch baseball games when teams came to Florida for their training. Beyond his talents as a sports referee, Mike was a bit of a hot dog expert, willing to travel miles in search of the perfect one, eventually declaring Greenup County the best.

He loved Florida deeply and had fond memories of visiting as a kid and always said it's where he would retire. But, above all else, Michael's greatest pride and joy was his family. His love for them, especially his grandchildren, was constant, unwavering, and deeply felt.

Those who knew him will remember the laughter, the endless stories, and the friendships that endured through many years. There's comfort in imagining him somewhere still talking, still telling stories, maybe even finally teaching a friend the game of golf the right way. Michael Dale Vance will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and talked about for years to come—just the way he would have wanted.

No services are planned at this time. His ashes will be brought to Kentucky in the summer to be laid to rest with his sons in the family cemetery.