Vance Gilbert Uhazie

IRON MOUNTAIN — Vance Gilbert Uhazie, 94, of Iron Mountain, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, at Bellin Hospital in Green Bay, Wis., surrounded by his loving family.

Vance was born on April 19, 1929, in Norway, son of the late John and Jennie (Peterson) Uhazie. He graduated from Iron Mountain High School, Class of 1947. After graduation, he began his employment with First National Bank in 1949.

Vance was drafted into the United States Army in 1951 and served in Japan and Korea. Following his military service, he returned to the bank, working his way up to Senior Vice President and retiring in 1994 after a 45-year banking career.

Vance completed courses from Northern Michigan School of Banking, and Central Banking in Minneapolis, in addition to attending numerous Michigan Bankers Association seminars.

He belonged to several organizations, including the Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Bankers Association, the Iron Mountain Board of Education for 17 years — serving as its president for four years — The Salvation Army, 4-H Club, Kiwanis Club for more than 35 years, Iron Mountain Masonic Lodge 388-32 Degree and Mason of the Year, Interstate Shrine Club, Scottish Rite Consistory, Ahmed Temple, American Legion, Pine Grove Country Club, Chippewa Club, Golden K, the Endowment Committee at Trinity United Methodist Church and the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight.

Vance’s hobbies included golfing, fishing, hunting, gardening and traveling. He especially enjoyed the times spent with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dorleen (Bilski) Uhazie, the love of his life; sons, Dr. Perry Uhazie, Darryl (Patti) Uhazie and Kenneth Uhazie; grandchildren, Tyler, Alyssa, P.J., Collin and Andy Hillman; brother-in-law, Bruce Hicks; cousins, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Vance was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and James Uhazie; and three sisters-in-law, Fanny Uhazie, Marlene Uhazie and Myrna Hicks.

Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Friday, April 19, Vance’s Birthday at Trinity United Methodist Church in Iron Mountain.

A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at the church. Pastor Brian Lightner will officiate.

Friends may leave condolences and tributes to Vance’s family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com.

The family has chosen Jacobs Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Iron Mountain to honor Vance’s legacy of life.