VANCE, Michael W. age 55 of Hamilton, Ohio died Saturday February 2, 2013, at University Hospital Cincinnati, Ohio. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on August 15, 1957, the son of Walter and Irene (Dunigan) Vance. Michael attended Hamilton city schools and completed 2 years at Wilmington College majoring in psychology where he was named to the deans list in 1979. Mr. Vance was a concrete mason and worked with numerous contractors in Butler County. Mike was an excellent cook and enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen. He enjoyed all types of auto racing and attending local festivals in the summer. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone when he could.

Survivors include his loving wife of 29 years, Tanya Vance; his dog, Dodger; cat, Ms. Kitty; aunt, Shirley Petit of Cincinnati; uncle, Kenneth Dunigan of Cincinnati; brother-in-law, Dennis (Linda) Asher of Fairfield; sister-in-law, Cathy (Steve) Landram of St. Cloud, FL; and a host of friends that will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mike had recently been placed on the liver transplant list at University Hospital and was instrumental in guiding others on the road to sobriety. "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

The family would like to thank the transplant team at University Hospital, Dr. Ravy, Dr. Steven Martin, and Dr. William Fenton.

Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. Zettler Funeral Home is serving the family. Memorial donations may be made to the Animal Friends Humane Society or rescue of your choice in Michael's name. Online register book available at www.zettlerfuneralhome.com