Mass of Christian Burial for Vance Taken Alive, 32 of Bullhead will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at 11:00 AM at the St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Bullhead. An all-night wake will be held at the St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Tuesday, October 10, 2023, with a prayer service at 7:00 pm. Interment under the direction of Kesling Funeral Home, will be held at the St. Aloysius Catholic Cemetery in Bullhead. Vance passed away Tuesday, October 3, 2023.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Vance Jonathan Taken Alive on October 3rd, 2023. Vance, age 32, was born on August 7, 1991 in Bismarck, North Dakota. Vance was the beloved son of Arthur Lane Taken Alive Jr. and the late Mary Jo Brownotter. Vance was blessed with three sisters: Vanessa Brownotter, the late Autumn Taken Alive, and Aydreena Taken Alive, and six brothers: Grady Uses Arrow, Martin Taken Alive, Arthur Taken Alive III, Charles Taken Alive, Clayton Brownotter, and Martell Taken Alive.

Vance's connection to family extended deeply into his relationships with his cousins. To him, they were like sisters and brothers, sharing laughter, adventures, and countless shared memories.

Vance graduated from McLaughlin High School in 2011. Beyond the classroom, his commitment to sports was unwavering. He excelled in cross country and football, but his exceptional skills were highlighted on the basketball court. Vance's dedication to the sport was evident in the way he immersed himself in the game, not just during the season but throughout the year. He frequently participated in off-season tournaments, underlining his passion and commitment. His dedication to the game played a significant role in leading his high school basketball team to the state tournament. One of his proudest moments was receiving the "All Tourney" honor from the Lakota Nation Invitational, showcasing his exceptional skills and heart on the basketball court.

Beyond athletics, Vance was a gifted artist. Vance had an artistic flair that won him "Best of Show" in art at the Lakota Nation Invitational. He further contributed to the community by creating the artwork for Rock Creek's Four Direction Lodges.

After high school, Vance moved to Bismarck, where he graduated with a welding certificate from United Tribes Technical College. His training paved the way for a position in Rapid City as a welder. In addition, Vance used his skills and strong work ethic to Rock Creek Land & Livestock. Whether welding or working cattle or buffalo, Vance was always there, ready to lend a hand and contribute with dedication and skill.

Vance and Payton Garter had two girls, Jaydace and Autumn, whom he loved very much. He loved his daughters and tried to be the best dad he could be. His love for his girls was evident in every laughter, every hug, and every shared moment.

Vance is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Jo Brownotter; sister, Autumn Taken Alive; maternal grandparents, Clayton Brownotter Sr. and Cecelia Brownotter; and paternal grandparents, Arthur Taken Alive Sr. and Ernestine Antelope.