Peter Ance

Peter D. “Lightning” Ance, 78, of Charlevoix, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at Boulder Park Terrace. He was born on June 16, 1946, in Charlevoix, the son of Norman and Ruth (Hansen) Ance.

Peter graduated from Charlevoix High School in 1964 where he participated in basketball, football, ski club, varsity club, and Spanish club. He went on to attend Michigan State University for several years. Many who attended school with him will remember his spot-on impression of JFK, and it was also in these younger years that he developed his love of golf; he even played in the Michigan Amateurs. 

For most of his adult life, Peter enjoyed spending his winters in Naples, Florida, and his summers in Charlevoix. When in Florida, he often went to watch the horse and greyhound races at the track. He enjoyed playing cards, especially Bridge, in which he reached the Life Master level of the American Contract Bridge League. He was an avid fan of the Charlevoix Rayders, MSU Spartans, Detroit Tigers, and Houston Astros, and he snuck in a round of golf any chance he could. He looked forward to playing in the annual “Belvedere-Townie Games” every year.

Peter was a one-of-a-kind character, full of wit, and always quick with a joke. He lived his life his way, and was well known to be seen in his Caddyshack pants and Frank Sinatra hats. Later in life, he moved to Charlevoix permanently and worked as a Blackjack dealer at Odawa Casino in Petoskey until his retirement. 

Peter is survived by his brother, James (Becky) Ance of Petoskey; his nephew, Dillon Ance; his niece, Kelsey Ance; as well as dear friends and caretakers, Liane McGhee and Joe Moore.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A burial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024 at Brookside Cemetery in Charlevoix.

He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Peter’s family asks that everyone remember him by raising a glass and making a toast in Lightning’s memory. The next time you see a bolt of lightning, it may just be Pete having one for you!

God Speed Lightning! 

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com