Vance W. Clelan, 101, of Carlisle, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at his home.  He was born on June 2, 1924, in Landisburg, Perry County and was a son of the late Raymond Earl Clelan and Nellie (Fry) Clelan.  He was married to Jean (Ruhl) Clelan who passed away on July 4, 1982.

Vance graduated from Landisburg High School in 1942.  He was inducted into the U. S. Army May 26, 1943, and was honorably discharged Dec. 22, 1945.  Vance took part in several battles, including Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, and Central Europe.   He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Theater Medal with 5 Bronze Stars and the Victory Medal.

Vance enjoyed fixing things and was a self-employed automobile mechanic all his life.  He and his late brother Raymond operated Clelan Brothers Automotive Repair in Carlisle for many years.

Vance was a member of McClure's Gap Church of God in Newville, and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Moose and the Minnequa Social Club.

He is survived by one daughter Terri Lee Clelan of Landisburg, one grandson Jason Baker of Landisburg, his companion of 42 years Mary Strange of Carlisle, three sisters, Vonny Harrington of Boise, ID, Doris Sollenberger of Craig, CO and Vera Shughart of Florence, MT.  He was preceded in death by brothers, Raymond Clelan, Jr. and Bruce Clelan and one sister Ruby Fitting.

A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McClure's Gap Church of God, 130 Church of God Rd, Newville, PA 17241. www.EwingBrothers.com.