In Memoriam: Kenneth E. Vannice

Kenneth E. Vannice, 74, died on January 15, 2018 in Portland, OR of cancer complications. He was an electrical engineer active in codes and standards work through the Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), of which he was a Fellow. He was also active in establishing a certification program for entertainment electricians through the Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP).

Vannice was born on January 2, 1944 in Bozeman, MT, to Daniel Bratschi Vannice and Catherine Asimos Vannice where he grew up. After graduation from Bozeman schools and Montana State University, he moved to Los Angeles, CA,  to work as an electrical engineer for a stage and studio lighting company. In 1996 he followed his profession to Portland.

Vannice was a member of Gallatin Lodge No. 6 AF&AM of Bozeman, the Pacific NW Railway Historical Society of Portland, and both the Rosetown Ramblers and Heads to the Center square dance clubs of Portland.

He is preceded in death by his parents, step brothers, step sister, aunts, and uncles. He is survived by many cousins including H. Lee Vannice of Corvallis, OR. He is also survived by his friend and adopted family, Lila Stephens, and her husband, Bryan Ackler.

Services will be held in Bozeman, and a celebration of Ken’s life will be held in Portland in February. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Behind the Scenes charity or the charity of your choice.