Ervin E. Lantzer

GRAWN — Ervin E. Lantzer, 84, of Grawn, died Monday, Sept. 29, 2008, at his home with his family by his side.

Ervin was born Aug. 17, 1924, in Eckert, the son of the late Ervin and Ruby (Bennett) Lantzer.

He answered the call of duty at the age of 17; serving in the United States Army during World War II as a combat engineer.

After the war he began making a living with the Pennsylvania Railroad, working his way up from shoveling coal to engineer, eventually retiring after many years.

Ervin had great pride in his country, and was a member and past post commander of Cherryland VFW Post 2780. He was the first All-American Commander for the post, served on the Honor Guard and was a true comrade to many.

Ervin truly enjoyed spending time crocheting and woodworking, showcasing his talent building models.

Ervin is survived by his longtime companion, Velma (Purkiss) Klosowski; sons, Ervin W. "Bill" (Mary) Lantzer of Grand Rapids and David K. (Debbie) Lantzer of Florida; three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Blanche, June, Mary and Ruby D.; brother, Edgar; many nieces and nephews; and several other loving family members, veterans and friends.

Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Military funeral services will take place at 2 p.m. Friday, also at the funeral home. Interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery, Kalkaska.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Munson Hospice or the Father Fred Foundation.

The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.