Richard Lance

Richard Lance, age 83, of Orrville, passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family, following a period of declining health.

Richard was born on October 28, 1942, in North Lawrence to the late David and Geraldine (Clapper) Lance. He graduated from Smithville High School in 1960 and, in November of 1967, married Charlene Hoffman. Together they built a loving life and family, raising two sons, Jerrod Russell (Dawn) Lance and Brian Christopher (Natalie) Lance. Richard took great joy in his grandchildren, Madison, Avelina, and twins Grayson and Alyssa, and was especially delighted to welcome his great-granddaughter, Serenity. Richard and Charlene shared many wonderful years together, creating lasting memories that Charlene will continue to cherish.

Richard's love for farming began at a young age as he worked alongside his father on the family dairy farm until his father's passing in 1972. He continued farming, crop farming more than 100 acres until he became wheelchair bound several years ago. In addition to farming, Richard worked as a milk tester with the Dairy Herd Improvement Association, eventually serving as district manager. Even with his demanding schedule, Richard remained a steady and devoted presence for his family and found time to coach his sons in farm league and Little League when they were young.

When he wasn't working, Richard enjoyed hunting trips to Pennsylvania, fishing with friends, going to bluegrass festivals, watching NASCAR races, classic westerns, and going to dirt track races at Wayne County Speedway. Above all, he had a passion for tractor pulling, a sport in which he proudly earned many first-place trophies and ribbons over the years.

In addition to his loving wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, Richard is survived by his sister, Sandy Steiner of Orrville, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents; grandparents; sister, Shirley Carr; and brother, Walter Lance.

Friends may call on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Auble Funeral Home, 512 East Oak Street, Orrville, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, at Auble Funeral Home, 512 East Oak Street, Orrville, with Chaplain Daron Butler officiating. Burial will take place at the Sherwood Memorial Gardens in Wooster.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to be made to your charity organization of choice or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at bloodcancerunited.org