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Lantz, Russell A. (1896-1970)
Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1970 May 14 p. 8
Birth date: 1896
text of obituary:
Served for 39 Years
BLUFFTON, O. — A professor with one of the longest terms of service to Bluffton College in its history died Sunday, May 3.
Russell A. Lantz, 74, was the victim of a heart attack in his home at approximately 7 p.m. His 75th birthday would have been June 16.
A member of the emeritus faculty, Mr. Lantz had the title of professor of school music and was on the staff from 1927 until 1966, when he retired. He was director of the music department for 30 years.
Mr. Lantz was graduated from a music course at Goshen College in 1918, received an A.B. degree from Bluffton in 1929 and the A. M. from Ohio State University in 1936.
BEFORE coming to Bluffton, Mr. Lantz had taught in public schools in Kansas. He directed the choirs of both First Mennonite Church in Bluffton and Grace Mennonite Church in Pandora.
Prof. Lantz was perhaps best known to the public for his work with the Bluffton Choral Society, which annually presents “The Messiah” during the Christmas season. He directed that group 32 years, retiring in 1960.
Mr. Lantz wrote these words several years ago on a biographical data sheet:
MY OUTSTANDING incidents seem to blend into one rich and inspired experience in teaching for 39 years in a small Christian college, the college representing my own church. The experience of working with a faculty of devoted and sincere people and with young people of high ideals has made my years of teaching most pleasant.
“Outstanding events have been those in connection with the work of the Vesper Choir (later A Cappella Choir), Men’s Glee Club and the Choral Society. The winning of the Ohio Intercollegiate Glee Club contest was a truly memorable occasion.”
SURVIVING Mr. Lantz are his widow, the former Mabel Weber, and two sisters, Miss Blossom Lantz of Muncie, Ind. and Mrs. Margueritte Colby of Topeka, Ind., and a brother, Everett, of Howe, Ind.
The funeral was conducted at 2 p. m. May 6 at the Bluffton First Mennonite Church with Dr. Robert Kreider, Bluffton president, Dr. Edgar Drumel of the Lima First Baptist Church, Rev. Stanley Bohn and Rev. Wilmer Shelly officiating.
The Mennonite obituary: 1970 May 19 p. 348