Gail K. Lantz, 88, of Morgantown, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in Ruby Hospital surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Morgantown March 31, 1938.
Gail joined the United States Air Force and served his country from 1958 to 1962.
Once he was out of the service, Gail went to college at West Virginia University, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry and Nature Resources.
Gail then pursued his career with the U.S. Forest Service, where he worked for over 30 years, eventually retiring in 1996 from the Monongahela National Forest Gauley Ranger District in Richwood.
Gail enjoyed his retirement years. He spent countless hours in his wood-working shop, as well as spending much time camping in Helvetia and gardening each summer.
Gail is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carol Lantz; one son, Michael Lantz and companion, Teresa Tennant; one grandson, Gavin Lantz and wife Heidi; brother- in-law, Merle Dalton and wife Mary Dalton; niece, Carrie Dalton; special neighbors; his nephew, Nolan Dalton and wife Cheryl; and niece, Liz Dalton. Gail is also survived by many other nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Gail was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mabel Lantz; sister, Patricia Lantz Allen, Judy Daft; brother, Jim Lantz; and brothers- in-law, Gerald Dalton and Derald Dalton (Gay).
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Ruby Hospital and Amedisys Hospice.
Friends and family will be received in Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce Street, Morgantown, Monday, May 18, from 3 to 8 p.m. Visitation will continue in the funeral home Tuesday, May 19, from 10 until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m., with Pastor Sean Wightman officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, with full military funeral rites being conducted by VFW Post #9916, #548, and the United States Air Force.
In lieu of flowers, donations, in Gail’s memory, may be made to Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, c/o Glenn Dalton, 2436 Kingwood Pike, Morgantown, WV 26508.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com
