Vance Carman Hiatt, Jr.

Vance “Sonny” Carman Hiatt, Jr., 91, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, at Yorktown Manor in Yorktown, IN. He was born on May 2, 1935, to the late Vance Carman Hiatt, Sr. and Sidney Irene (Crawley) Hiatt in Muncie, IN. After completing his education, receiving a bachelor's degree, Vance went to proudly serve his country in the United State Army.

After being honorably discharged, he went on to become a father. He was a hardworking man who was dedicated to his community, proudly serving as head reserve officer for the Muncie Police Department. He also went on to become Plant Manager at Westing House ABB working on electric transformers.

Along with his service and work at home, Vance had many joys in life. Being a Hoosier, he was an all-around Indiana University sports fan, enjoying cheering on the IU teams every season. Often referred to as “Sonny” by those who were the closest to him. He was a car lover as well as a motorcyclist owning numerous Corvettes/GTO’s/Powerstrokes/a Porsche and Yamaha’s. Sonny loved the dirt - his love for Sprint Cars, Midgets, Silver Crown, and Super Lates was deep. His taste for racing ran the gamut from Supermodifieds at Oswego to Cup Cars at Talladega. But what he loved the most was USAC at Gas City, Kokomo, Eldora and the defunct “Indy Mile” at the fairgrounds. No matter where he went he always made friends at the track, enjoying countless hours there with his son, Vance Carman Hiatt, III. Sonny loved animals, especially the many dogs he cared for over the years, who brought him so much joy. However, greatest joy in life was the time he got to spend his family and friends, who will all miss him very much.

Vance is survived by his children Vance Carman (Lori A.) Hiatt, III, and Shelley Brown; two brothers, Sid “Buddy” (Delores) Hiatt, and Michael (Marjorie) Hiatt; grandchildren, Ashley Brown, and Dillon (Hillary) Hiatt; niece, Cindy Hiatt; nephews, Michael and Mitchell Hiatt, as well as friends Jack, Bret, Mike and Tony.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vance Carman Hiatt, Sr. and Sidney Irene Hiatt; as well as his son-in-law, Jack Brown.

Donations can be made in his name to ARF or the USAC benevolent fund.