James Raymond Lantz

James Raymond (JR) Lantz, passed on July 14, 2018 at home in Meeker, Colorado, after a long battle with cancer. James was born on August 5, 1980, in Key West, Florida. James moved to Meeker in 1990 where he found his home and never left. With great pride, James dedicated his adult life to the community working as a dispatcher for Rio Blanco County Sheriff’s Office.

A die-hard Steelers fan and very vocal hater of Tom Brady, James enjoyed football Sundays with his family. He collected Star Wars and Steelers memorabilia. With a deep passion for fantasy, sci-fi, anime and action, “Date nights” consisted of gaming all night with friends or watching movies. James loved cats and to terrorize dogs. He was witty with a contagious laugh and very big heart.

James leaves his mother; Margaret “Peggy” Reck; father, Leonard Reck; grandmother, Margaret (Peggy) Barker; siblings, Jamie Reck, Patrick Reck, Jason Reck, Lance Pangle; nieces, Norah and Danika; brother-in-law, Thadius Loar; sister-in-law, Tanika White; aunts, uncles and cousins, siblings from other mothers (D-Man, Hardy Boys, Hoss, Annie, Elizabeth and Kim) and many more family and friends too numerous to mention. He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Charles (Dick) Barker; grandmother, Karen Abrassart; Uncle Stevie, Nanny, and his beloved Miss Kitty.

James’ family would like to extend their deep gratitude and thanks to the Rio Blanco County Employees and the Town of Meeker for their support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the James Lantz Memorial Account at the Bank of the San Juans, P.O. Box 600, Meeker, CO 81641. Proceeds will be awarded to a Meeker High School Senior pursuing a career in the public service sector.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 26, 2018, at St. James' Episcopal Church in Meeker.