Jerome Lanz

Joe Lanz, 82, Baxter (formerly of Nisswa for 40 years), passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 3, 2017 at home next to his wife, Ann. Joe was born in Sauk Rapids, MN and graduated from the U of M. He forever remained a devoted Gophers fan. Joe’s love of golf uniquely affected his marriage. In 1958, when Joe and Ann were planning to get married, Joe spotted a good deal on golf clubs. Joe couldn’t afford both and knew that between Ann and the deal, only one of them would last. The wedding was postponed, Joe bought the clubs and Ann was still there, where she remained for nearly 59 years. Joe’s love of all sports set him up for a great disappointment, as each Vikings season he would dryly exasperate, “I’m going to die before the Vikings win a Super Bowl!” Joe’s sixth sense was his humor, as evidenced by his quick wit, the ability to tell a long and involved joke- equally funny each time it was told, a well-organized joke file in his desk at work and a reputation for pulling practical jokes on his neighbors and wife. Joe looked forward to poker with his buddies. These were strictly no-spouses-invited events, unless, of course, they were providing food. In such cases, they were to set it down and slowly back away so as not to distract from the serious competition. It was in Joe’s DNA to hunt and fish. Somehow, the creatures he pursued so passionately always seemed to grow in size each time a tale was told. Last August, Joe fulfilled a dream when he purchased a Mustang. Topping his personal best time from 0-60 mph became a new hobby. Joe was a fun and playful father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Memories of being taught to play cribbage, building a toboggan and snow ramps, hunting, fishing and reading together will be cherished forever. Joe’s last day on earth was a good one, it was spent with Ann at a bluegrass festival listening to his favorite band, Monroe Crossing. He is preceded in death by his parents Leonard & Myrtle Lanz and his infant son, Rick Jerome. He is survived by his wife, Ann; children, Steve Lanz, Kayla (Steve) Farr, Scott (Cara) Lanz; grandchildren, Josh Gibbons, Ashley (Luke) Hanson; great-grandchildren, Charlie, Ellie, Chloe, Noah, Lillian; sisters, Betty (Chuck) Miller, Lavonne (Tom) Sullivan, as well as many nieces and nephews. A private graveside service will be held. Memorials may be given to the Lutheran Church of the Cross. Arrangements are with Brenny Funeral Home.