Obituary of Victor D. Lanza

Victor D. Lanza, 81, passed away May 21, 2016 at his home in Olympia, WA, surrounded by family. He was born December 8, 1934 to Vito and Katherine Lanza in Tacoma, WA. He graduated from Stadium High School, and served in the Army Reserves for seven years. Victor married Martha Marie Rasmussen on August 23, 1958 in Tacoma. They have lived in Olympia for 30 years. Professionally, Victor was a heavy equipment operator. Victor loved Lionel trains. He also was a master builder of radio control tug boats. He played string bass and drums in a band. He enjoyed making wine, growing tomatoes during the summer, and attending Harbor Days in Olympia. He was a past member of the Tacoma Christopher Columbus Lodge and Italian Lodge. He is survived by his wife, Martha Lanza; son, Dean Lanza; daughter, Gina Lanza-Peterson (James Peterson); grandsons, Bryce Peterson and Alec Peterson; nieces and nephews, Jeanette Bourne, Lauren Knight (Bill), Sharon Rushing, Martin Bourne (Kim), Gina Knight, Elizabeth Bourne, Christopher Rushing, Brenden Rushing, Ben Villahermosa, Aaron Knight (Christina), Christine Knight, Henry Knight. He was predeceased by his father, Vito Lanza; mother, Katherine Riggio-Wells; and sister, Antoinette Lanza-Bourne. Many thanks to the oncology staff at St. Peter Hospital, the caring hospice team that visited Victor at home, Dr. Arthur Molina, and Michelle Sullivan, ARNP. Memorial donations may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 123 NW 36th St. #100, Seattle, WA 98107. Please leave memories of Victor or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.