William Paul Lanza

William P. Lanza passed away unexpectedly on December 20, 2025. Born March 24,1945 in Argentina, at age 12 he and his family emigrated to the United States, first settling in Brooklyn, NY and then moving to NJ. After high school, Bill went to WVU where he majored in Spanish and played soccer for the Mountaineers. Graduating in 1968, he entered the US Marine Corps where he spent 20 years first serving in Viet Nam and then in various bases in the states. Upon retiring from the Marines, he became a Spanish teacher and then administrator for the Prince William County schools and also taught Spanish at NOVA for many years.
A life long love of soccer led to 40 years of coaching, refereeing and mentoring youth, whether at the school, county, club or travel team level. His dedication and enduring impact on the young people he coached was fully recognized in 2025 when he was inducted into the VA-DC Soccer Hall of Fame.
A man of quiet determination, ready to lend a hand and always with a smile, he was a true friend to all who had the privilege to know him. For over 10 years he volunteered at ACTS Food Pantry, insuring that those less fortunate were able to have enough to eat.
His two granddaughters, who affectionately called him "Pa", brought him immense joy, especially as they shared his love of soccer. Bill could always be found cheering them on from the sidelines or taking them to World Cup games.
Bill is survived by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 57 years, Nancy, sons Billy and Greg, granddaughters Sophia and Isabella, brother Roque and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours are at the Mountcastle-Turch Funeral Home in Dale City on Monday, December 29th from 7-9PM. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 30th from 10 to 12 at the Quantico Marine Base Chapel A private interment will follow at the National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV.org)
Request, please RSVP Billy Lanza (son) at wplanza@gmail.com if you plan to attend the Marine Memorial Chapel on Quantico Marine Corps Base, he will provide the list of attendees to the Gate Guards.