Vance William Eller

Lenoir, NC-Vance William Eller, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away at his residence on June 24, 2006 surrounded by his family. He was born in Ashe County, NC on December 2, 1918, he was one of nine children born to Emery and Golda Wiles Eller. Vance and his late wife, Rosa Lee Key Eller began their marriage in Wilkes County, NC. Drafted into the Army in 1944, Vance served in the European Theatre during World War II. Before being honorably discharged, he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, European African Middle Eastern Service Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. They purchased a farm and moved to the Oak Hill section of Caldwell County where Vance resided until his death. Vance worked in the hosiery industry in Catawba County and retired from U. S. Hosiery Mills in Hickory. Patents were issued for several hosiery knitting machine parts that he designed and made. Along with farming, gardening and tending his livestock, he loved to tinker in his workshop and this, combined with his innate mechanical ability, led to the creation of many interesting items, including specialized tools, gadgets, and nutcrackers. These items have been enjoyed by many friends and family. He was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Wood and a brother Jesse (Greek) Eller. Vance is survived by sons, Joe Rodney Eller, Sr. and wife Dean of Winston Salem, N. C., William Emery Eller, Sr. and wife Caroline, of Hickory, N. C., James Kirk Eller and wife Pearl of Claremont, N. C., Brice Eugene Eller and wife Sheila and Dennis Adair Eller and wife Marla of Lenoir, N.C. a daughter, Shelba Eller Watson, and husband Wayne of Maiden, N. C. Also surviving are fourteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren; three sisters, Evon Carver, Frances Laws, Wave Marsh, three brothers Emery (Buck), Joe Donald, and Frank Eller. A private graveside service will be held at Mountlawn Memorial Park in North Wilkesboro, N.C. with interment immediately following. The Rev. Ernie Richards will officiate. Military rites will be conducted by the VFW Post 1142. The family extends a special thanks to Hospice of Lenoir. Memorials may be made to Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood St., Lenoir, NC 28645 or to the charity of the donor?s choice. Online condolences may be sent to the Eller Family at www.evansfuneralservice.com. Evans Funeral Services of Lenoir is serving the Eller Family. PDF Printable Version