John P. Lanza

COLONIE – John P. Lanza, 72, of Colonie, passed away on Thursday November 30, 2017 at Albany Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born in Albany in 1945 and was the son of the late Patrick and Anna May Lanza; raised in West Albany and graduating from South Colonie High School in 1964. John served in active duty in the US Air Force from 1965-1966 and continued to serve in the US Air Force reserves for the following four years. He worked most of his life as a self-employed carpenter and was also employed through the Golub Corporation. John cherished time spent with his family; going on adventures to farmers markets, car shows and flea markets, taking road trips to unique food dives and going out for his favorite treat, frozen yogurt. He enjoyed impromptu gatherings where he got to share his homemade cashew crunch, fried dough and other creations with his family, who will miss him deeply. John’s three beautiful grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was met in heaven by his grandson, Cole Thomas Smith. John adored children and was lovingly known to many as Papa John. John always had very interesting stories and words of wisdom for all who he shared his time with. He will always be remembered by his great sense of humor and his ability to keep everyone smiling.

John is survived by his partner of 28 years, Bernadette Trzaskos; former wife and mother of his children, Susan (Saccocio) Lanza; brother, Peter Lanza and wife, Nancy (Fordley) Lanza; half-siblings, Patrick Lanza and wife, Rachael, Sherri Ann Lanza, Melanie Lanza, Michael Lanza and wife, Desiree; children, John Lanza, Jennifer Lanza, Tracy (Lanza) Smith and husband, Thomas Smith, Jr.; grandchildren, Peri Smith, Gianangelo Lanza, Lane Smith and Zachary Ramsey; nephew, Ethan Fordley and several other nieces and nephews which he loved dearly.

Calling hours will be Tuesday evening from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday morning at 10:00 at Christ Our Light Catholic Church, 1 Maria Drive, Loudonville. Memorial contributions may be made to any of the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children in John’s name. To leave a message for the family or to order flowers, visit http://www.cannonfuneral.com/