John Thomas (Tom) Lanka D.D.S., 81 years old, of Galway Lake, New York, formerly of Niskayuna, died peacefully Sunday, January 28th at home surrounded by his loving family.Born in Chicago, Illinois, Tom was the son of the late Florence and John Lanka and brother of the late James Lanka.He attended the University of Illinois graduating from the College of Dentistry in 1961. Tom practiced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Schenectady from 1966-1998. He was an attending Oral Surgeon at Ellis and the former St. Clare's Hospitals. He served as Chief of the Medical-Dental Staff of St. Clare's from 1988-1993. He served as the Director of the Department of Dentistry and Oral Surgery for many years as well as being an instructor in the General Practice Residency Program. He was inspired as he worked with the young Dental Residents until his last hospitalization in August 2017. Dr. Lanka served as an officer in many professional and community organizations.A member of St. Mary's Church in Galway, he was a Eucharistic Minister.Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Lenore Lanka; two daughters, Kathleen Lanka of Galway and her two children, Sarah and Annelise Ostrowski; Karen Hedman and her husband, Chris of Boulder Colorado; two sons, John Lanka of Denver and his two children, Dylan and Isabelle; Dan Lanka of the Galway area, his wife Katrina and son Cody.Dr. Lanka felt blessed to have been surrounded by wonderful people all his life.His motto was "Do a little good each day" and "Be kind to everyone you meet."A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, February 3rd, 2018 at St. Mary's Church in Ballston Spa at 10 a.m.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Galway Public Library New Building Fund, PO Box 207, 5264 Sacandaga Road, Galway, NY 12074.Arrangements by Richard J. Ryan Funeral Home, Inc.
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My condolences on the passing of Tom. He was very helpful when I started my Dental Practice. He was my go to Oral Surgeon for my practice. He was so kind and gentle.
He will be remembered in my prayers.
Anthony D Pomato, DDS
February 16, 2018
So sorry to hear of the loss of Dr Lanka.
Knowing his daughter Kathy and her professsional charm...Dr Lanka inspired many of the people who so enjoyed his presence. Prayers & Blessing to the family.
Victoria Ragucci
February 5, 2018
Condolences to the Lanka family on this loss. As a high school friend of his daughter Kathy, I have many nice memories of this family and spending time on Galway Lake in the summer and at the house in Niskayuna.
Joyce Ray McLeod
February 4, 2018
My condolences on your loss.
Armand Marderosian
February 4, 2018
Sandy and I remember you fondly when you lived down the street from us in Niskayuna. Our children grew up together and we experienced interesting times. You and Lenore were great neighbors and friends. May you be a memory to all people who knew you.
Hal Haber
February 3, 2018
Dr. Lanka was the very true meaning of a gentleman and a professional. He helped so many in his lifetime. My condolences to Lenore and the family. He will be missed.
2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith"
May our Lord watch over you.
Vince Filanova
Napa, CA
February 1, 2018
So sorry to hear of the loss of Dr. Lanka. I had the great pleasure of working with him in the OR. He was one of the kindest Dr's to work with.
Judi Thomas
February 1, 2018
Dr & Mrs John Fulco
February 1, 2018
So sorry to hear of Dr. Lankas passing. My Mom (Marge Quinn)worked with the Dr.for many years and loved him dearly. A wonderful man.Our family sends our deepest condolences to your family. Pam(Quinn)Press
Pam Press
February 1, 2018
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