Wayne was born January 4, 1919 in Woodville, WI to Sam and Alma (Christopherson) Lance. He was raised and educated in Plainview, MN, graduating in 1937 from Plainview High. After school he accepted a job at a theatre in Rochester, MN. On November 11, 1942, Wayne was united in marriage to Vivienne Oss in Ulen, MN. He enlisted into the United States Army on November 3, 1943 and served overseas during WWII earning the rank of Captain. He later enrolled into the University of Minnesota Mortuary Science Program in Minneapolis, MN. Upon finishing his degree, he accepted a position at West Funeral Home in Detroit Lakes. In April of 1955, Wayne and Vivienne joined Donehower Funeral Home as a partner. In 1959, Wayne sold his interest in Donehower Lance Funeral Home and accepted a position as City Finance Officer of Detroit Lakes. Wayne considered himself a "Minnesota Boy" and took great pride in his community involvement in Detroit Lakes. Along with serving on numerous boards and committees, Wayne was a lifelong Rotarian and served as secretary treasurer for several years and twice was Admiral of the Northwest Water Carnival. Wayne retired as City Administrator in 1984. Wayne and Vivienne enjoyed their retirement years wintering in Florida and spending their summers in Detroit Lakes. In August of 1991, Vivienne passed away. Wayne was united in marriage to Harriet Jonason on August 29, 1994. Wayne and Harriet enjoyed their trips to Europe and other sites throughout the United States. Wayne is survived by his wife: Harriet Lance of Detroit Lakes, MN, two sons: Vincent (Marilyn) Lance of Rogers, MN and Kevin Lance of Monticello, MN along with five grandchildren and five great grandchildren: He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Vivienne (1991), four brothers: Vern, Russell, Neil and Les and four sisters: Arvella, Arlene, Vi and Evelyn.
Funeral Home: David Donehower Funeral Home 609 Hwy 10 East Detroit Lakes, MN US 56501
Previous Events
Visitation
Monday, May 30, 2011
5:00 PM
- 7:00 PM
David-Donehower Funeral Home
609 Hwy 10 East
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
Service
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
2:00 PM
First Lutheran Church
912 Lake Avenue
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
Cemetery Details
Location
Oak Grove Cemetery
609 Hwy 10 East
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501