Vance was born in Bath, ME, as his father, Tom, was stationed at the Brunswick Naval Air Station at the time of his birth. He grew up in Haverhill and went to St. James Elementary School and Whitter Vocational Technical School. As a youth, Vance played hockey and was interested in muscle cars, racing, motorcycles and big trucks. 

After high school, Vance quickly made a name for himself as a diesel mechanic and was sought-after by many local trucking companies. He also drove trucks for a number of local oil companies, and at various times, owned his own trucking companies. As an adult, he also took up the hobby of racing super-modified race cars. 

Vance was married to Diann Merrick during which time the had their daughter, Paige. Later he was married to Leslie Brown during which time they had their son Logan. 

While Vance lived a robust life, he suffered from a number of health conditions, most significantly, diabetes and congestive heart failure. Despite strict protocals due to Covid-19, Vance's immediate family was able to spend time with him in his final days.