Louis J. Lantz

Louis J. Lantz October 18, 1936 - February 25, 2012 Louis J. Lantz, 75, of Lock Haven, died Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012, at home with his family. Born Oct. 18, 1936, in Lock Haven, he was the son of the late Ralph S. and Nancy (Caprio) Lantz. On March 21, 1959, he married Judith Haag, who survives at home. He graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1954 and Mansfield State Teachers College in 1958 with a degree in Music Education. Lou played the trumpet professionally, starting in high school. After graduating from college, he went on a USO tour to Japan in 1958/1959 with the Gabe Garland Band as a trumpeter and vocalist. Following that, he played with the Dean Hudson Orchestra, a southern regional band, and with Charlie Barnet. The family moved to Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1961. He continued playing, and for three years toured extensively with the Glenn Miller Orchestra under the direction of Ray McKinley, playing trumpet and as a Featured Vocalist. Lou came off the road and began working as a case worker for the New York City Welfare Department. He continued to play and perform in NYC, and sang with the Renaissance Chorus of New York for many years. The family returned to Lock Haven in 1970, and he worked as a Case Worker for the Clinton County Board of Assistance, retiring in 1996. Always a musician, Lou played and sang with several area bands; Johnny Nicolosi Band and Impact from Williamsport, and the Dance Band and Dixie Lions from State College. He also substituted for numerous area bands. Locally, he is most remembered for the Consord Sounds, a seven-piece swing band that played for many weddings, dances, and outdoor concerts, especially at South Hills Business School and the Lock Haven Triangle Park Summer Series. We can't forget to mention the infamous Last Resort Dixie Band, a favorite at the Saint Agnes Festival. Lou was a performer, arranger, composer, and purveyor of snappy patter. He put music and laughter in many lives and will be missed. He was a member of the American Federation of Musicians, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and the Sons of Italy. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Teresa, of Fairbanks, Alaska; Ralph, of Wyomissing, Pa.; Robert, of Falls Church, Va.; Sarah, of Bloomfield, N.J.; and granddaughter, Mackenzie (daughter of Ralph); his sister, Theresa L. Stoy and Robert D. Stoy, of Lock Haven, and their family; and his brother-In-law, Burritt L. Haag and Yveline Peter of Leeds, Mass., and his family. Our family is filled with many wonderful nieces and nephews. Lou was preceded in death by a nephew, Ralph D. Stoy in 1992. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday March 4, 2012, from 2-5 p.m. at the Clinton Country Club, 41 Fairway View Dr., Mill Hall. Interment will be at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions can be made to the Susquehanna Cancer Center or the Ross Library, through the Yost-Gedon Funeral Home 121 W. Main St. Lock Haven, PA 17745. Online thoughts and memories can be made at www.yost-gedonfuneralhome.com