John Mance

John J. Mance of Butte died June 2, 2006, in Butte Convalescent Center after a short illness.

He was born April 18, 1917, in Butte, one of four children, to Steven and Catherine (Rozic) Mance. He grew up in the McQueen Addition, graduating from Holy Savior Grade School. He lived in his family's home until the early 1970s when the Anaconda Co. bought the 200 homes and stores in that area to expand the Berkeley Pit. He then moved to Farragut Avenue on the Flat. John had many fine memories of McQueen growing up.

After serving in the Army in World War II, John returned to Butte to begin a long career working for the Anaconda Co. He spent most of his time working at the Leonard Mine. After retirement, he enjoyed spending time with old friends at the Belmont. For the past two years, he lived at the Vintage Suites, and the staff there quickly became a second family to him.

John was an avid sports fan and former member of the McQueen Athletic Club. He enjoyed watching baseball and the Butte Copper Kings, but nothing could compare to his beloved Chicago Cubs. Even though he enjoyed local football teams, anytime the Chicago Bears played, that would take precedence. He was active in league bowling for many years.

John never married. His parents; sisters, Jean Dudley and Mary Leary; brother, Frank; and nephew, Jim Dudley preceded him in death.

He is survived by his niece, Mitzi Leary Rice and her husband, Dixon, of Kalispell and their children, Devin of Seattle, and Megan and Jared of Kalispell; several cousins; and close friends, Charles and Ellen Nugent of Butte.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, in St. Ann's Church in Butte. Visitation will precede the service at 9:30 a.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Our Lady of the Rockies.

Express condolences at www.mtstandard.com/obits.