Vance Nelson

Vance Nelson, age 74, of Mount Horeb, formerly of Madison, died unexpectedly but peacefully at home on Thursday, October 12, 2017. Vance was born in Chicago, IL and met his wife Ann (Sipple) while they both studied Music Education at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.

Vance worked as a band director for many years throughout the Madison Area (Monroe, Lodi and Deforest Schools). Later in life, Vance pursued a career in landscaping. One of Vance's greatest passions was handbells, a love he shared with his wife. Vance directed the handbell choir at First Baptist Church in Madison for over 25 years and was currently serving as the Bell Director at Salem United Church of Christ in Verona at the time of death. Most recently, Vance spent time rehearsing and performing with the Iron Horse Coronet Band. Vance was an avid Badger fan. One of his fondest memories was participating in the 1963 Rose Bowl Parade and Game with the University of Wisconsin Marching Band.

Vance enjoyed many hobbies including golf, coin collecting, model trains and his unique coat hangers. Vance was generous with his friends and family and might best be described as a true character. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Marion Nelson and his son Michael. He is survived by his wife Ann; daughter Sarah Lund (Alex) of Saint Paul, MN; son Robert Nelson (Amanda) of Middleton, WI; brother Bruce Nelson (Geri) of Chicago, IL; and sister Anita Key (Martin) of Madera, CA.

A memorial service will be held for Vance on Monday, October 23, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Clinger officiating. A luncheon and gathering will follow. Memorials may be directed to the Handbell Choir at First Baptist Church, 518 N. Franklin Ave Madison, WI 53705 608-233-1880, http://firstbaptistmadison.org/.

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