Todd William Lanter

My name is Todd Lanter, and this is my journey. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to my parents Robert & Geraldine Caturia on September 9, 1959, I returned to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 21, 2024, at Theda Care Hospital in Neenah, WI. I am the youngest of four, my brother Michael whom I called Mikey, my sister Toni Lanter-Cockeram (Al), my sister Pamela Lanter-Ness whom I called Pammy, and my half-sister Johanna Lanter. Becoming a father to my daughters Elizabeth, affectionately known as Lizzy, and Michelle Lanter-Peterson (Nathan), lovingly referred to as Mimi but to me, she is Mimi-dos, along with my son Marcus, brought me immeasurable joy and filled me with pride. I was blessed to hold the title of grandpa, affectionately known as "papa," to five sweet and wonderful grandchildren: Natalie Peterson, Jackson Keller, Griffin, Sophie (Arthur Ponce), and Samuel Guetschow. In 1987 I started working at McDonalds in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. Rising to the position of general manager, I was later relocated to various locations across Wisconsin. In 2001, when asked to transfer to Abrams, Wisconsin, I sought guidance through prayer, and I distinctly heard the clear voice of the Lord, urging me to go, for He had something special in store for me. That special "something" turned out to be Cindy. We crossed paths shortly after my move and tied the knot on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2004. I fondly referred to her as chick-broad, mostly because I knew she didn't care for it. Upon marrying Cindy Mehlberg-Guetschow, I welcomed into my life a stepson, Guy Guetschow (Sondra), and a stepdaughter, Crystal Guetschow (Kevin Spoutz). Shortly after our blessed union, a lifelong dream came true, we became restaurant owners when God guided us to the Village Lantern in Cecil. From September 2004 to June 2023, we proudly owned and operated the establishment until my health issues led to our retirement. For more than 19 years, stories, laughter, and prayers filled the air as abundantly as the aroma of coffee. We formed connections with countless customers, and I cherished the opportunity to know each of them by name. In recent years, Cindy, our dogs, and I cherished our camping trips in Caroline, Wisconsin. The campfires, board games, music, and visits from loved ones made those moments truly special. Additionally, we made the choice to close the restaurant on Sundays to attend worship services at River Valley Church in Shawano. I found great joy in serving as a greeter, offering coffee, and ushering at church. Throughout this life's journey, I endured health, family, and financial struggles. While I may haven't always done or said the right things, I remained steadfast in my trust that God would guide me along His chosen path. In loving years with Cindy, we shared moments of prayer, laughter, and tears, deepening our connection and treasuring the simple moments. As I prepared to depart this Earth, my final words to Cindy were a heartfelt declaration: "I love you." Even with my broken body, I was able to donate my corneas that will bless two people to restore their sight. The cornea helps the eye to filter light so we can see clearly. My prayer is that you can clearly see the light, love, and forgiveness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Todd's celebration of life will be officiated by Pastor Marc Kelliher at River Valley Church, 131 N Franklin St, Shawano on Saturday, April 6, 2024, with visitation at 10:00 and service at noon. Private family burial will be done at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established at River Valley church.