Richard Michael Lance

Richard Michael Lance, 61, of Shenango Twp, a proud U.S. Army Veteran, passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2025.

The son of the late Hilda (Nail) and Hilderbert Lance. He was born on September 23, 1963, and raised in a loving home in Altoona, PA.

On August 27, 2005, he married his best friend and the love of his life, Brenda (O'Donnell) Lance. She survives at home.

Rick worked as a plumber at Central Heating and Plumbing in New Castle, PA. He enjoyed the interactions with his customers and co-workers.

He obtained a true love and passion for hunting deer and bear from his father. Some of his fondest memories were the times he and his father spent in the woods hunting. He had hoped to pass on his love of hunting to his grandchildren and looked forward to teaching them.

He also enjoyed an occasional trip to a casino, where he knew he was just "donating his money." But, he loved the thrill and anticipation of winning a big jackpot. Rick was always happiest when spending time with his family and friends. He loved playing with and being goofy for his children, his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He was always ready to bring a smile to everyone's faces. If you knew him, you loved him, because there wasn't anything to not love about him. He will forever be remembered as the loving, fun, gentle Christian man that he was.

Rick was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Ellwood City, PA. He served a few terms as a trustee, took part in the Last Supper Play, and enjoyed doing his part by helping at the annual Turkey Dinner Fundraiser.

In addition to his wife Brenda, he is survived by two sons; Michael (Brandi) Lance and Tim Wellhausen; daughter, Becca (Jim Coho) Lance; two brothers, David and Stephen Lance; two sisters, Gloria (Kevin) Boggs and Anna Mae (Sam) Wilt; step-sister, Cindy (Dan) Melley; three step-brothers, William (Susan) Wagner, David (Bonnie) Wagner, and Terry Wagner; many nieces, nephews, and cousins, and his beloved furbabies, Toby, Willie, and Little Bit. Last but FAR from least, his cherished grandchildren, Ryan, Cian, Carter, Sylvia, and Gabriel.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepmother, Shirley Hatch, and his in-laws Carol and Matt Powers.

Visitation will be held on Saturday May 3, 2025 from 1 pm until 4 pm at the Marshall Funeral Home, 341 Main St. Wampum. A Funeral Service will be held immediately following the visitation at 4 pm with Pastor Jay Sterling of the First Methodist Church officiating. Military Rites will be observed. Following the funeral service, the family would like to invite everyone to a wake in Rick's honor at the First United Methodist Church Social Hall at 416 Crescent Ave. Ellwood City PA, 16117.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Rick's name to the Lawrence County Humane Society.

Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com