Andrew A. Jantz

Andrew (Andy) Jantz of Arlington, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on July 26, 2024 at the age of 63.
He is survived by his wife Joan (Lundstrom) Jantz of Arlington, his sons John and Thomas, and Tom's wife Mary, all of Arlington. Andy was pre-deceased by his father Andrew Russo of Fitchburg.
Andy is also survived by his dear sister Laurie Jantz of Maryland, sister-in-law Gail Schlesinger of South Boston, brother-in-law Peter Lundstrom and wife Terry of Weymouth, brother-in-law Kevin Riemer of Malden, niece Jess Schlesinger and nephews Rob Schlesinger (and his wife Meghan), David Riemer, and Ryan and Mikie Jantz.
Andy will also be sorely missed by his lifelong friends, Joe Nebel, Jim Daly, Pete Van Hecke and Rob Daly. Together, the "Gang of Five" tremendously enjoyed weekends in Annapolis and ribbing each other via group emails and never-ending "Slack chats."
Born in Fitchburg, MA on June 20, 1961, Andy grew up in Maryland, just outside of Washington D.C. He moved to Boston shortly after college and then never strayed far geographically, settling in Arlington over 30 years ago.
Andy's early work career was in publishing, as his real passion was reading and writing. His immense library of books spanned centuries of work, covering poetry, philosophy, world history, and outer space. He was especially proud to have been a published poet, which included individual poems, as well as four short books of poetry.
Although he struggled with severe depression for years, Andy worked hard to live his best possible life, supported by the love of his family and friends. He was immensely proud of his two sons, and the love they shared pulled him through many difficult times. Andy especially enjoyed Sunday Family Dinners, coming up with unique and funny gifts for birthdays and Christmas, road trips to Montreal and Quebec, cruises to Bermuda, his month spent in Paris, and watching sports with the boys.
Though initially a "Redskins" fan, Andy quickly adopted all the Boston sports teams, including several local college teams. Andy had a special passion for the Bruins, Patriots, and Red Sox, and spent countless hours watching and listening to their games.
Not to be forgotten, Andy also leaves his beloved feline companion, Princess.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the DeVito Funeral Home, 1145 Mass Ave, Arlington on Thursday August 1 st from 2:00 to 4:30pm. A Remembrance service will begin at 4:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Andy's memory to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Massachusetts at https://namimass.org