Ross Eldon Vance

The death occurred peacefully at the Lions Prairie Manor, Portage la Prairie MB, on August 10, 2026, of Ross Eldon Vance, in his 74th year.

Born August 24, 1951, he was the beloved son of the late Fred and Martha (Hantke) Vance. Lovingly remembered by his sister Zelda (Allan) Morrison of PEI and his three treasured nephews, Vance (Beth), Kitchener ON; Neil (Tracy), Stratford PEI; and Chris (Monica), Toronto, ON.

Ross grew up on a farm in Amaranth MB, where he attended school, had many friends, was president of the local 4-H riding club and the local church youth group, and simply enjoyed all that life had to offer. In these happy times, Ross was kind, thoughtful, and generous. He had a wonderful sense of humour and was loved by all. He attained his Education degree in 1973 and moved to Nelson House where he eagerly began the teaching career he had so looked forward to.

However, his teaching career came to a screeching halt when, at the end of his first year, he became ill and had to resign. He later received the heartbreaking diagnosis of schizophrenia - and life for Ross, from then on, was a challenge and a struggle.

So what then, can we say of a life when the storm clouds gather? Today, we know a lot more about mental illness, its onset and progression, and the toll it takes on a person’s plans and dreams. And on the family that loves him. We now also know more about treatment and management, which at that time was far from perfect, as his family searched in vain for a path back to wellness.

Ross battled his illness with strength of spirit, a dogged determination to remain employed

(even if not in his chosen profession of teaching) and the will to remain independent. Later in life, as his illness progressed further and it became too difficult to live on his own, he moved into the Lions Prairie Manor, where he enjoyed the caring staff and ready meals, leisurely walks and outings, country music, games, visitors with whom he’d reminisce about the “good old days,” and always a large Tim’s whenever one came his way.

If there is any solace for those who loved him, Ross is now free and at peace. 

Ross was interred by his immediate family, at the resting site of his parents, in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Special thanks to the wonderful caring staff of Lions Prairie Manor in Portage la Prairie and to all who loved, cared for and supported Ross along life’s journey.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021