Obituary of James Corwin Vance MD

James Corwin Vance MD

Heralded by a chorus of pre-dawn loonsong, Corky peacefully drew his last breath at home on June 9, 2019 after a long fight against pancreatic cancer, surrounded by his family and his faithful dogs.

Corky was a gifted physician and mentor, teacher and researcher, scholar and athlete, sportsman and naturalist; a man of great intellect and even greater generosity.

A friend to creative minds and youthful souls, he is greatly missed.

Survived by loving wife of 48 years, Karen; beloved children Chardonnay (David) and Karl (Pamela); grandchildren Penelope and James; and brothers Michael (Kanako) and Richard (Shirley). Preceded in death by parents Barbara and Pershing.

No services are planned, but a memorial gathering will be held at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum from 5:30-8 pm on August 14, 2019 (952-443-1400).

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Corky's Montanan heritage and lifelong interest in owls, the family has designated The Owl Research Institute for memorial contributions (PO Box 39, Charlo, MT 59824, owlresearchinstitute.org)