Vance Lewis McWhorter

Lansing, Michigan

A humble man’s man with the utmost respect for others, who had a high level of integrity and was polite, kind, thoughtful, sweet and generous, passed on to his Lord Father’s eternal home.

I was born December 10, 1920, in Sunfield, MI, the son of Clair and Josephine McWhorter. At the age of 95, I passed away June 23, 2016.

I graduated from Sunfield High School in 1939 and went on to work for Wilcox Gay as plant protection chief until the war in 1942. I was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army’s 69th Infantry Division. I was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in connection with military operations in the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes Forest Region. I was also awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat. After the war, I returned to Wilcox Gay in 1945. I went on to work as a sales analyst and distribution for the Oldsmobile Division of General Motors in 1950, retiring in 1987.

In 1948, I married Margaret “Agnes” Beebe and was her caregiver for over 26 years before her passing in 1982.

I then met a special lady, Jean VanNorman, in 1984, and we were the greatest of companions, right up until my passing.

Throughout my years of existence, I very seldom could express verbally my heartfelt feelings. So to this day, that is why Hallmark has record profits.

I didn’t have any real hobbies except for going out for a nice meal with family and friends, in the last year though, it was only with my beloved Chris and Jean. I would like to especially thank my caregivers at Ingham Regional / McLaren Palliative Care for their wonderful care. Thank you.

I was preceded in death by my wife, Agnes in 1982; brother, Clair McWhorter, Jr.; and sister, Geraldine Baumeister.  I am survived by my son, Chris McWhorter; sister-in-law, Arlene McWhorter; brother-in-law, Jack Baumeister; several nieces and nephews; and my loving companion, Jean.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.  Inurnment will be in Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McLaren Palliative Care, Ingham Regional Assisted Living, or Capital Area Humane Society.  Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.

At my life’s end I was the longest surviving McWhorter of my era. I give thanks to my Lord Father.

“Tomorrow is not promised, and the past cannot be changed, therefore live each day to the fullest, and know that every new day is a blessed gift from God.”

It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later! In closing I’d like to say for my last time…“Is that right.” Lovingly, Vance.

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5 Messages to “Vance Lewis McWhorter

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Doug Wardell
June 26, 2016 at 5:38 pm

Chris,
My thoughts and prayers are with you buddy.

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Tom and Wendy McWhorter
June 27, 2016 at 9:40 am

Dear Chris: We enjoyed talking to your father he enjoyed catching up with us and sharing what was happening in his world. Hugs to you for your loss and know that you were a wonderful son.

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Lisa Donohue
June 27, 2016 at 10:41 am

Goodbye Uncle Vance… Thank you for being a good man and brother to my mom.

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Steve Baumeister
June 27, 2016 at 2:33 pm

Vance up until recently was the primary source of information as to what was happening to his wife’s side of the family out Michigan-way. I know my father always appreciated hearing from his brother-in-law. Chris, sorry for your loss. I know from personal experience that looking after an aging parent is not easy. The best for your future.

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Tom Doyle
June 30, 2016 at 2:48 pm

I never knew your father but would have had I moved to the neighborhood sooner. If I see you at the house I will stop by and say hi.
Tom and Sam the Golden Retriever
1630 Wellington

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