MCPHERSON — Vance Nicholas Espinosa, 55, passed away Oct. 7, 2026, at his home in McPherson, Kan. He was born on Feb. 22, 1971, in Great Bend, Kan., to Oscar and Sharon (Kagle) Espinosa.

A longtime resident of McPherson, Vance worked for Pfizer in many different roles, most recently as a Senior Continuous Improvement Specialist. Prior to that, he worked at Primus Sterilizer in Great Bend alongside his father. Always a diligent and unfailing worker, Vance took pride in whatever he did and was committed to doing his best when completing any task. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. While not affiliated with a church, Vance maintained his relationship with God. Vance enjoyed his privacy and loved being outdoors with his faithful canine companion, Vivian, always at his side. He loved to “soup up” vehicles, and enjoyed maintaining his yard, pool, and landscaping. Whether it was fishing, sitting fireside with loved ones and friends, rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs, shooting at the gun range, or just taking in a beautiful morning or a beautiful sunset, he took pleasure in the simpler things. He was known by many for his breathtaking sunset photographs. Vance was an unfaltering source of guidance to his loved ones. He was a devoted father, a steadfast big brother, a doting grandfather, and a loyal friend.

Survivors include his son, Nicholas Espinosa of Ellinwood; daughters, Tiara Lawson (Collan) of Hays, and Emory Espinosa of McPherson; grandchildren, Elliana and Evangeline Lawson; mother, Sharon Espinosa of Great Bend; siblings, Jason Espinosa of Great Bend, and Matthew Espinosa (Sheri) of Albert; nephews, Benjamin, Logan, and Kian Espinosa; niece, Alaina Espinosa; aunts, Lalita Semón (Mark) of Wichita, Jane Stejskal of Great Bend, and Tamie Thomas of Hoisington; uncles, Butch Espinosa of Great Bend, Gilbert Espinosa (Cindy) of St. Louis, Mo., Robert Espinosa of Great Bend, George Kagle (Karen) of McPherson, and Larry Kagle (Sandy) of Canton; aunt by marriage, Barbara Espinosa; and many beloved cousins and extended family. He is preceded in death by his father, Oscar; uncles, Joe Espinosa, Lawrence Espinosa, and Jesse Espinosa; and aunt by marriage, Barbara Espinosa.

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life service will be held at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12th, 2026, at the Black Walnut Event Venue, 292 NE 10 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530. Memorials have been designated to Vance Espinosa Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 7, 2026