Vance Sutton Clegg

The other day, for no particular reason, I was inspecting my hands. And there, on my left hand, specifically the first knuckle on my left hand, was a scar. I might have ignored it, probably had many times before, when I unexpectedly remembered exactly where it came from. It may have been my very first excursion with Van in his van to deploy a Bal-Chatri trap. In this case we were after a Red-tailed Hawk that Van had spotted near the UTSA campus. And we did it, on the first pass! The trap actually worked. Van had told me to be careful as we prepared to place a hood over the bird's head. I wasn't careful enough and quickly learned just how sharp those talons were. As I squealed and the blood spurted, Van said something like, "I told you to be careful!" We caught many birds together over the next few years, and there are many great memories, but that's the only scar.

I was just thinking about my old boss at the Blood Bank, where I started my IT career and googled him. I'm so sorry to see he had passed last year. He introduced me to iguanas and let me take in one of his rescues (I named her Wana). He was instrumental in my upbringing in the IT field and I learned so much from him. One of my funniest memories was when I saw him installing an AOL CD on a computer and asked what it was. He said it was how you get on the Internet. I said, "What the he!! is the Internet? Oh that'll never catch on." He was a good man and had a loving family. He accomplished so much in life despite being struck with Polio at a young age. He once made me drive his van (equipped for a wheelchair) by sitting on a folding chair. lol. I'll never forget you, Van Clegg!!

It was always interesting while working with Van. He had a different way of looking at things from the way I looked at them, which kept me on my toes. Will always remember the great times we spent together.

It is to Van Clegg that I give full credit for initially inspiring my love of raptors some 40 years ago, and for my eventual career in research, studying and writing and drawing these birds. Any contribution I have made in this field I owe to him. His warmth, generosity, talent, and drive had no limits. A man who lived naturally and profoundly, he would have bested the lives of 10 ordinary persons. What he taught me was best captured by Ralph Waldo Emerson: "...every object rightly seen, unlocks a new faculty of the soul." I did not see him enough, I will miss him dearly the rest of my life.

An incredible person with an extraordinary life! I'll never forget seeing him on TV singing, when I was a kid. I know he rose above his lifelong suffering, and pray that he did not have added suffering in the end.
Much love to you, Debbie. My mother was quite saddened, but really appreciated your call. She loved Vance, as she watched him grow up; she was so amazed and proud of ALL of his accomplishments, and never failed to share his news!
Sincerely,
Judy Owen Moen

As you know, Debbie, I was very saddened when you notified me of Van's passing last week, but something special has occurred since then. Wonderful memories of our time together at UTSA have come to the surface and replaced the sadness with joy. Officially in those days, I was the teacher and Van was the student, but so often those roles were reversed. I know without a doubt that I learned more from Van than he did from me, about raptors and about life. But there's at least one thing I can take credit for, and that's playing a roll in bringing the two of you together, Debbie. How special that was, then and now.

Dear Clegg Family,

It was an absolute privilege and honor knowing Van for the years I did. He was such an extraordinary person. The picture is from our first Falconry 4-H meeting and that has still been one of the happiest memories as an agent. Van was extremely knowledgeable but also had a passion for teaching. I enjoyed every minute, and so did every kid. Lastly, he was a wonderful person to talk to. We would enjoy a nice lunch (and he figured very quickly what my favorite place was), and we talked about everything. I'm heartbroken by the news...but I know his memory and spirit lives on. Fly high Mr. Van.

Our hearts are so heavy to learn about the passing of Van. Van had such an incredibly caring heart. He dedicated years to our mission at Owl Radio. Every Wednesday morning, he selflessly donated his time to read the San Antonio Express News over the air so that those who cannot see could have access to the printed word. Van was a treasure and a dear friend to all of us. He brought humor, love and a perfect amount of sarcasm to our morning. He was a great problem solver and never hesitated to give his time and talents, and his talents were many! His legacy has certainly left a mark on so many. May God bless and keep you Van. You will be so very missed my friend. Deb, we all send our love and prayers to you and your sweet family. Family is what he treasured the most. May you be blessed with peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Vance!!

Man did I love working with you. One of my cubemates!! Great conversations and so much fun sharing life experiences with you. Thank you for sharing a picture of you with your Harris Hawk with me. Gorgeous bird. I still watch and share the videos you sent me with my kids. No doubt, the wolves in Yellowstone are amazing and part of God's great plan.

By the way, I shared a couple of pix with you. These were photos I took that you helped me identify such amazing birds of prey. I'll be making a contribution to Last Chance in your name. So thankful to have had you in my life. So thankful that you led such a full life too. I wish I got to take a ride on your wheelchair with you. :)

God speed to you good friend. As we say in the Navy, Fair Winds and Following Seas too. All my best to your amazing and precious family.

See you soon Brother.
Steve Miller

I was fortunate enough to have worked with Vance. Such a Gem of a person that will truly be missed. I know he is in a better place although it is difficult for those left behind. Clegg family, you all will be in my prayers.

Our hearts are heavy with the loss of Vance. We are praying for peace and comfort for your family during this time.

It was such a pleasure working with Vance at USAA. He was an amazing person inside and out. I will miss our many side conversations, in particular around his passion, tips, and tricks with gardening.

With deepest sympathy,

Nhan Walkinshaw

Dear Deborah and Family,

Vances life accomplishments were many and his impact on people is an inspiration all an amazing testament to his great character. I was blessed to serve alongside Vance at USAA and enjoyed his positive spirit and truly bright smile. Our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to you.

Sincerely,
George

I work with Vance at USAA for a short while but in that time he touched my life. We had a chat almost every morning and he guided me with the books and skills he used so I could pass my PMP, impacting my professional life. He also constantly suggested fun outdoors things to do in San Antonio as I was knew to the State. I will continue to be inspired by his smile and perspective on life.

Vance was a friend and mentor of mine at USAA. I am deeply saddened by the passing of my good friend and wish the entire Clegg Family all of God's comfort during this time of trial. Vance will be missed, but know that he helped all of us make it through the difficulties we were facing in our work lives by "keeping our vision to the long term." Vance was the best of us... I know he is with our Lord now.

Miss you little brother!!

You will be greatly missed here on earth, but I know you're up in Heaven. Love you Uncle Vance

Deb, I am sorry for the passing of Van but know he lived his life to the fullest not holding back...love and prayers.

Dear Deborah and Family,

Our hearts hurt for the loss of Vance, and we pray God watches over your family and heals your pain. Please accept our deepest sympathies during these times. We celebrate his life and will always remember his everlasting influence. Our prayers are with your family.

Sincerely,

Rapalo Family

Dear Deborah and family,

I had the honor to work with Vance at USAA. His friendly smile, fun stories, and determined spirit will be missed.

Deepest sympathies during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Simeon

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Vance had the best humor, he would say, "catch me if you can!" I loved the energy he sourced and as we worked closely together I learned about things that I would not have otherwise known without his diverse experience. Great man, great memories, loving soul!

Vance was an amazing soul! I really enjoyed our moments at work - USAA. He was one of the first ones to arrive and never stopped rolling - full of energy and positivity. It was amazing to read his life's accomplishments, and even though I only knew him a year, it all makes senses and fits perfect to his mannerism and character. Thanks for sharing him with our team. Blessings to his family

Dear Debra
Im so sorry to hear of your husbands passing. He was a great man!! A great husband, father and grandfather!!
If you need anything please let us know
Love, Barbara