Dean Richard Vance, age 76 of St. Paris, passed away Monday, March 16, 2015 in his residence. He was born on March 20, 1938 in Dayton, Ohio the son of Curtis Sr. & Lydia (Penny) Vance. Dean graduated from Tipp City High School in 1957 and served in the U.S. Army from 1959 - 1962. He was a member of the Pleasant Hill Church of God for over 43 years. Dean was a carpet layer by trade, but a naturalist by choice. He planted over 10,000 trees in his lifetime, and was a good friend to wildlife, nature and ecosystems. He never met a stranger and loved to talk.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years Shirley (Price) Vance, son John (Amy) Vance, daughter Julie (Tim) Driskill, grandchildren Daniel, Mattison and Ashley Vance, Dillon, Chapman, and Celeste Driskill, brothers Earl, Robert and Victor Vance, sisters Pauline Barefoot, Mary Swander, and Pat North, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Carl, John, Curtis Jr., and Donald Vance.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 19, 2015 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm at the Pleasant Hill Church of God, 115 N. Main St. Pleasant Hill, Ohio 45359. A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 20, 2015 at 10:00 am at the church with Pastor Scott Deane officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Dean''s memory to the Pleasant Hill Church of God Building Fund, 115 N. Main St. Pleasant Hill, Ohio 45359. Service have been entrusted to the Blessing-Zerkle Funeral Home, Tipp City. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.blessingfh.com.