Marleeta Lance

Marleeta Kay Lance was born on August 21, 1947, in Lewellen, Nebraska to Ernest and Donna Tophoj.  She passed away peacefully in her sleep from natural causes on January 29, 2020, 30 years to the day after the passing of her beloved daughter.  She was 72.

Marleeta is survived by her husband of 26 years, Elgan “Butch” Lance, her son, Kirk, his wife, Tiffany, and their children, Lennon (8) and London (1), and son, Wade, his wife, Lettie, and their children, Jesse (8) and Rosemary (1).  She is also survived by her siblings, Lavonne, Yvonne, Jeanette, Anita, Elton and their families.  It brings her family great solace to know she is reunited in heaven with the family members she lost in life.

She worked at Phoenix Day School for the Deaf and the Wyoming School for the Deaf in Casper.  Her dedication and service to the deaf community never wavered as she also worked tirelessly as an interpreter.  Marleeta found great purpose in being the ears for those who could not hear, and her impact can still be felt today.

Spending time with family and friends at the lake, golfing, or enjoying great conversation and laughter on her back deck, with a glass of wine in hand, were her happiest times second only to time spent with her grandchildren.  They filled her life with immeasurable pleasure and joy.

Marleeta always had a smile on her face and a kind word. Those closest to her never doubted the love she felt for them. Her steadfast devotion to her faith and her ability to see the light during troubled times were awe-inspiring and set a great example for all those fortunate to know her. The world is truly a better place because she was part of it.

In lieu of flowers, please enjoy dinner with your family and toast her well-lived life.  If you care to do more, please make a donation to the American Heart Association or St. Jude’s in her honor.  There will be a celebration of life on July 31, 2020, beginning at 3:00 p.m. on Butch and Marleeta’s back deck.  All who loved her and want to celebrate her life are welcome to attend.

Services are entrusted to the care of Bustard & Jacoby, Funerals, Cremations, Monuments and Receptions, 600 CY Avenue, Casper, WY 82601.