Vance Dee Brinkerhoff

Vance Dee Brinkerhoff, 89, of Torrey, Utah, passed away peacefully at his home on March 10, 2026, with his loving wife by his side. Born on July 21, 1936, in Bicknell, Utah, to Dennis Jay and Nila Behunin Brinkerhoff, Vance served 22 years in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. A veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars, he was stationed at numerous bases and met his first wife, Judith LeBlanc, while stationed in Kansas. They married on May 26, 1962, and had three children: Katherine, Daniel, and Teresa. Judith passed away on December 13, 1974.

In 1979 Vance met Vanetta Christensen. They married on June 1, 1979, and he gained a son, Doyle, through their marriage. After retiring from the Air Force, Vance and Vanetta spent many summers traveling across the United States in their truck and fifth-wheel trailer, from Alaska to Mexico. When their children were young, these trips became cherished family adventures, and later they continued traveling with friends. Vance also enjoyed camping and hunting in the mountains around Wayne County.

Known for his remarkable talent in fixing and building things, Vance was skilled in electrical and mechanical work of all kinds. Family and friends relied on him to solve any problem, but more than his practical abilities, they treasured his steady presence and willingness to be there whenever they needed him, no matter the distance. Above all, Vance was a compassionate, loving, and generous man who always placed his family first. His kindness, strength, and quiet support will be remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Vanetta Brinkerhoff of Torrey, Utah; his children, Katherine and Flint Gleave of Richfield, Utah, Daniel Brinkerhoff of Richfield, Utah, Teresa and Durran Brian of Loa, Utah, and Doyle and Tiffany Stock of Roy, Utah; 11 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Judith Brinkerhoff, his brothers Richard Brinkerhoff and wife Zola, Earl Brinkerhoff and wife Eunice, and his sister Dorothy Martin and husband William.