Joseph Peter Lanza

March 19, 2012 by Lisa Parker

Joseph Peter Lanza

Joseph was born Joesepie Lanza, February 4, 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio to Paul and Marie Battaglia Lanza. He had one brother and two sisters.

Joe served 20 years with honors in the United States Air Force and was a WWII vet. Following his military career, his occupations included owner and manager of a Dairy Queen in Oklahoma, a helicopter instructor for Southern Airways in Mineral Wells, and an industrial thread salesman for Heminway and Bartlett with a three state area. Joe enjoyed his family, reading, crossword puzzles, chess, playing card games, oil painting, and was an accomplished wood worker. He loved a challenge and believed in staying active. His hobby was developing and maintaining a 20 acre pecan tree orchard. His pecans received several state ribbons and awards.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, and wife of 60 years, Aline Lanza.
Survivors include his two sons, Paul K. Lanza family, wife, Marjean, Russell and Joseph; Donald R. Lanza family, wife, Janet, Allison and David; and Cynthia Lanza Harrison family, husband, Jim, Dean, Jeff, and Vanessa; and great-grandchildren Lauren, Eric, Savannah, Andrea, Trevor, and Mylen.