He was born on July 2, 1927 in Chicago, son of Mildred Lantz. He was one of six children. He married Wanda "Rosie" Waller on Oct. 19, 1946 in Decatur.

He was preceded in death by Wanda, his mother and two brothers, Robert and Ray.

He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1946. He worked as a carpenter and self-employed general contractor before retiring in 2004.

He is survived by his daughter, Debby Lantz; sons, Msgr. David S. Lantz, pastor of St. John Vianney Parish in Sherman, St. James Parish in Riverton and Resurrection Parish in Illiopolis, Mike (Paula) Lantz, Tim (Kitty) Lantz, Mark (Karen) Lantz, Steve Lantz and Jeff Lantz; sisters, Charlotte (Bill) Lockhart, Carol (Earl) Davis; brother, Gary; 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

A memorial gathering and ceremony for family and friends was held Aug. 22 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home in Springfield. A private burial was held at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions   may be made to St. Patrick Catholic School, 1800 S. Grand Ave. E., Springfield, IL 62703 or St. Martin De Porres Center, 1725 South Grand Ave. E., Springfield, IL 62703.