Brian J. Lanz

Brian Jon Lanz, 62, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away on June 6, 2024. He was born February 18, 1962 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Robert and Donnamae Lanz (nee Bolstad). They later divorced and Donna moved the kids to the La Crosse area. Brian had countless fond memories of growing up on “the farm” with his grandma and grandpa. He was a proud graduate of Central High School.

Brian met Christine Ann Kleinschmidt in 1980 and they began dating soon after. They were married on August 5th, 1995. In 2024, they would have celebrated 29 years of marriage and 44 years together. Brian and Chris welcomed their daughter Stephanie (“Doogs”) in May of 1987. Brian gained a son when Steph married Andrew in 2014, and he became a grandpa when they welcomed their daughter Zola in 2019. Brian proudly took on his new role of “Papa” when she was born and earned and embraced that title to the fullest extent. He showered her with affection and could always make her laugh, and enjoyed taking her to Target, Linda’s Bakery, and the Boat & RV shows.

Brian was a beloved brother to his three siblings Steve, Karen, and Robb. They feel he served as a father figure and role model throughout their lives. He was a wonderful son, and doted on his mother

Brian spent over 30 years at Clason Buick GMC as the parts manager. He was fond of his work family and he made lifelong friendships there. He never complained and rarely missed a day of work. He had a strong work ethic and knew a little something about everything. He was a self-taught mister-fix-it, naturally gifted with building and remodeling, and liked to tinker in the garage. It wasn’t all work and no play though. He enjoyed spending time with family & friends, collecting vintage signs, funko pops, vinyls, band & character shirts, and all things trains and cars. He was proud to be a part of the 608 Piston Pounders Car Club and one of his favorite pastimes was going to car shows with friends and showing off his ‘51 Chevy truck.

It’s no wonder Brian touched so many lives, because he was very easy to love. He was kind, thoughtful, and he put others’ needs before his own 100% of the time. He could talk to anyone, took a genuine interest in the lives of those around him, and had a way of making everyone feel so special. Of her husband, Chris shares that Brian was a teacher by nature and taught her many things. He was a good sounding board and was always a devoted husband. She had a profound respect for him. Steph thinks he was simply the best - he always knew what to say, was there for her from the moment she was born until the moment he left the earth - and she couldn’t have asked for a better dad. When Zola was asked what she will miss about her Papa, she said, “how he gave me kisses and called me ‘Squirm.” He was a pillar of strength and guiding light through all life had to offer, and his gentle spirit and comforting presence will be missed by all.

Brian is survived by his wife, Christine, his daughter, Steph, son-in-law, Andrew, and grand-daughter, Zola. He is further survived by his mother Donna, brothers Steve and Robb, and sister, Karen, mother-in-law Brenda Daily, “2nd daughter” Renee, many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and so many friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Bob Lanz, father-in-law, Dave Kleinschmidt, maternal and paternal grandparents, aunts, uncles, many cousins, and two nephews.

There will be a celebration of life at 11:00 AM on Thursday June 13, 2024 at Schumacher Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Ave. S., La Crosse. The visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until the time of service. Rev. Martin Yeager will officiate.  Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in La Crosse, along with a luncheon at the Barre Town Hall.

Brian, we love you and miss you already - “Always give moocher doochers and huggie duggies.”