Longtime Trucking Executive and Community Leader Charles Vancuren Passes Away at 79
Charles Arthur 'Chip' Vancuren, a 79-year-old resident of Viola, Kansas, passed away on September 10, 2026, at his home. He was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather Bob Ryan.
Vancuren's career spanned over four decades, with various roles in the trucking industry, including working for Winters Truck Line, Cassell Truck Line, and USF Dugan Truck Line. He also served as a department supervisor at Home Depot for two and a half years before joining Land Air Express in Wichita, Kansas in 2002.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Vancuren was deeply involved in his community, serving as Councilman and Mayor of the City of Viola, USD #356 School Board member and Board President, and long-time member of the Viola Lions Club. He also held various offices at his church, including Trustee, Ruling Elder, Church Building Committee, and Church Treasurer.
Vancuren is survived by his wife Diana Vancuren, two sons, Christopher Allen and Chad Allen, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Memorials have been established in his name to the Viola United Presbyterian Church or the Viola Lions Club.