David Matthew Lantz

David Matthew Lantz, age 54, of Howell, Michigan, passed away on August 9, 2025. He was born on November 18, 1970, to David B. and Elaine Lantz.

Dave is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Lantz, whom he married on September 27, 2008; stepchildren Kristen and Davy Allred; cherished granddaughters Ginny and Ruby; siblings Scott, Steven, and Susan (Mark) Roe; and sister-in-law, Susan Lyon. He was Uncle Dave to Stuart Lantz, Jessica Lantz, Elizabeth (Rajel) Omizo, Josef Lantz, Nathan (Taylor) Roe, and Kelsey (Ross) Lester, and Great-Uncle Dave to Rajel and Avery Omizo. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Frederick and Marian Inman, and Emerson and Hazel Lantz.

Dave lived life with humor, courage, and an unshakeable spirit. Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at age 18, he went on to receive a life-changing double lung transplant on August 3, 2001. Over the next 24 years, he faced and overcame numerous medical challenges, including two strokes, lymphoma, and diabetes, always meeting them with resilience and wit. It was this remarkable strength that earned him the nickname "Super Dave."

A man of many joys, Dave loved RVing, traveling to all-inclusive resorts, serving as a devoted fantasy football commissioner, and indulging his sweet tooth as both a candy connoisseur and ice cream aficionado. He was an avid Jeopardy! watcher, fluent in sarcasm, regularly disappointed Detroit Lions fan, and never without a quick-witted remark.

Above all, Dave was a loving son, husband, brother, and friend-and a proud grandpa to Ginny and Ruby. Though he did not have children of his own, being Grandpa was one of the greatest joys of his life.

Dave's courage, humor, and love for those around him will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held for Dave from 12:00 - 2:00PM with a service beginning at 2:00PM on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, MacDonald Chapel, 315 N. Michigan Ave., Howell, MI. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Dave's life and legacy.

Memorial contributions can be made in Dave's honor to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, https://www.cff.org/

Memories and online condolences can be shared with the family at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com.