The Celebration of Lance’s life will be held at 2:00pm, Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Spitzer-Miller Funeral Home, with Pastor Jon Damaska officiating. Burial at Mellette Cemetery with Military honors. Lance James Fuhrman, 79, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Born in Aberdeen, SD, Lance lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, faith, and service. A proud Vietnam veteran, he served his country with honor before returning home to pursue his lifelong vocation as a farmer. With a strong work ethic and deep respect for the land, Lance built a legacy rooted in perseverance and love for the rural life.

Lance’s commitment to community was evident in his active involvement in his church, where he not only worshiped faithfully but also served in leadership roles on numerous boards over the years. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life both in Mellette, SD and Towerpoint in Mesa, AZ where he wintered for 17 years.

Never one to sit idle, Lance enjoyed a wide range of pastimes. He was an avid card player, a loyal Minnesota Twins fan, and a spirited participant in water volleyball matches that often showcased his competitive streak and sharp sense of humor. He had a passion for horses and was known for breaking them with patience and skill—a talent that led him to participate in rodeos during his younger years.

Lance’s warmth, humility, and quiet strength touched many. He will be remembered as a devoted family man, a trusted friend, and a steadfast pillar of his community.

He is survived by the love of his life, Julie Fuhrman, daughter, Jennifer (Ponge) Diouf and grandchildren, Waly, Adama, and Zayden, daughter Launa Fuhrman, daughter Michelle (Michael) Pitts and grandson Mitchell, son Craig (Carrie) Ehrich and grandchildren Crayton and Atley, sister GayLynn (Tom) Shea, brother Terry(Mary) Fuhrman along with several cousins, nieces, nephews, etc.

Preceded in death were his parents, Roy and Margaret Fuhrman, sister, Gloria, and stepson, Jason Carsten.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St Jude Children Hospital in Lance’s memory.