Ronald Lee Lantz

Ronald Lee Lantz, 84, of Erlanger, a cherished member of our community, passed away on February 2, 2025, in Meridian, Mississippi. Born on December 12, 1940, in Ellamore, West Virginia, Ronald lived a life dedicated to his family, church, and his work as a retired truck driver, a career that took him across the country and allowed him to engage with countless people along the way. In October 2002, he used his semi-truck to block a rest stop exit in Maryland to help catch the two DC Snipers, without concern of his own safety and ultimately ended their killing spree. 

Ronald is survived by his beloved daughter, Ronda Zwick and her husband Vince, and his four treasured grandchildren, Karyn Zwick (Evan Slone), Bradley Zwick, Matthew Zwick, and Jason Conn, who carry on his legacy and spirit. He leaves behind his dear brother, Eugene Lantz, and his loving sisters, Ilene Malcolm, Marlene Young (John), and Ramona Zickefoose (Ted), and several nieces and nephews. Their bonds of family were a source of comfort and joy throughout his life. He also leaves behind close friends Tom Lovelace as well as Dennis Fessler, Tim Humphrey, Steve Lecoy, and their wives.

He was preceded in death by his first wife of 44 years, Ruth Evelyn Martin Lantz, his son, Ronald W. Lantz, and his second wife of 16 years, Mary Ellen LaBare Lantz, as well as his parents, George Dillworth Lantz and Nellie Davis Lantz, his brothers Robert, Leo, and Bradford, and his sisters Margie, Carolyn, Ann, and Regina. These family ties profoundly shaped his life and character, and he often spoke fondly of the memories created with them.

Ron was a member of the Kentucky Colonels and the Kenton County Fraternal Order of Police Associates Lodge #20. 

Friends, family, and loved ones are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service commencing at 12:00 PM, both to be held at the Central Church of the Nazarene, located at 2006 Pieck Dr, Fort Wright, KY 41011. Burial to follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.

As we remember Ronald Lee Lantz, we honor not only his contributions as a father, grandfather, and brother but also the warmth and kindness he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will live on through the love and memories held by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Central Church of the Nazarene, 2006 Pieck Dr, Fort Wright, KY 41011.