Michael Chance obituary released
By amusementtoday | April 22, 2016
WICHITA, Kansas — Michael (Mike) Dean Chance, 42, Wichita, Kansas, joined his loved ones in heaven Tuesday, April 19, 2016.
Mike was born May 26, 1973, in Wichita, Kansas, to Richard (Dick) and Penny (Pruter) Chance. He made many long-lasting friends at his alma maters, Wichita Northwest High School (1991) and Kansas State University (1995).
Mike embraced his gift of sales by joining his father in the family business at Chance Rides, a world-leading amusement ride manufacturing company, in 1998. In 2000, he was named the third generation president of the company. He led Chance Rides through many challenging and prosperous times. Mike took much pride in the company his grandfather, Harold Chance, built and was instrumental in expanding it into roller coaster design and new product development. Mike especially loved taking the first official ride on newly installed attractions, alongside his father.
Mike married fellow K-Stater Mindi Gibbs on June 26, 2000, in Maui, HI. Their son, Carter Michael, was the light of his life.
Mike was deeply loved and admired. He was an active member of the Kansas chapter of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). He loved watching K-State football and WSU basketball games, traveling with his family and competing in triathlons (a half IRONMAN and Escape from Alcatraz were among his most gratifying feats). The love of family and friends fueled Mike in all his accomplishments. His contagious laugh, his smile and his sense of humor and adventure defined him and will never be forgotten.
In addition to his wife and son, Mike is survived by his father Dick and step-mother Carol Chance, grandmother Marjorie Chance, sister Amie (Alan) Green, brother John (Ritisha) Chance, stepfather Jim (Nancy) Stanelle, three nieces, two nephews and many other close aunts, uncles and cousins.
Mike was preceded in death by mother Penny Stanelle, grandfather Harold Chance and step-brother TJ Hernandez.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held Wednesday, April 27, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church 1550 N. Chapel Hill Drive, Wichita, KS 67206. Memorial contributions may be made to the following organizations: KidzCope, 9415 E. Harry, Suite 501, Wichita, KS 67207; Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas, 555 N. Woodlawn, Suite 3105, Wichita, KS 67208.
