Christopher Lee Lance

On April 26, 1951, Robert and Marilyn Lance brought a piece of their hearts into this world. For 70 years that heart walked this earth, in love and in honor. He left this earth on December 13th, 2021.

Christopher Lee Lance was born in Grand Rapids. Michigan and grew up in Madison, Michigan. In 1976 He married Janet, his true love, and celebrated 45 years of love, laughter and tears this summer.

In 1985 he Joined the United States Army. He went on to serve 22 years. During that time, he served tours overseas in Germany, Haiti, Korea and Iraq. As well as duty stations in Oklahoma, Texas, Washington. Louisiana and Florida before his retirement. He began his military career as a 13Bravo, Artillery Fire Direction Specialist, his final role was a Combat Engineer. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class and served with great pride.

Christopher enjoyed Hunting & Fishing, playing music on the drums, working with his hands making period correct reenactment items and clothing as well as a passion for gunsmithing. He enjoyed woodworking and a number of his family and friends received gifts of his work. Being a musician, he enjoyed live shows and could often be seen dancing with his loving wife in the downtown square. His children and grandchildren were a big focus in his life. He was very proud of the various accomplishments that his legacy had attained. You could often hear him speaking fondly of his grandchildren or great grands. While he was no stranger to hard work, he also believed in playing hard and cracked jokes frequently to bring smiles to people’s faces.

He is preceded in death by his mother Marilyn Elaine, and father Robert Melvin Lance - his legacy includes his wife Janet Kay (Hanlin), his children. Michael Anderson & wife Michelle Lance of Adrian, MI, Dawn Renee & Brett Greunke of Lambertville, MI, Heather Lynn & Frank Milsten of Tacoma, WA, Christine Marie Grubbs of Surprise, AZ, Mindy Gail & fiance Keith Yensch of Clayton, MI, and Erika Leigh & fiance Mitchell Moore of Oregon, OH. He has 17 grandchildren Michael C Mccoy, Rick A Burciaga, Jr., Mikael M. Lance, Brandon M. Brass, Michaela M. Phan, Shane M Cheshire, Austin L McCoy, Keifer W Grubbs, Geddy L Lance, Jesse A Burciaga, Dakota C Thomas, Frankie L Milsten, Lillian E Thomas, Anderson M Lance, Montana B. Lance, Lucien S Welch, & EvanLeigh G Welch. In addition, he is also survived by 13 great grandchildren and 2 waiting to arrive any day now. Also surviving are his siblings Sharon Lance of Lambertville, MI, Ron Lance of St Louis, MI, Melissa Lance of Houghton Lake, MI and Terry Lance of Adrian, MI.

A Celebration of life will be held January 22nd from 1-5pm at Adrian AmVets, 122 N. Main Adrian, MI 49221. There will be a rifle salute followed by food and refreshments.