William Michael Lanz

William “Woody” “Willie” Michael Lanz, passed away on August 15, 2024, at the young age of 73. He was born at Mission Hospital in Huntington Park, California on February 24, 1951 at 12:16p.m. He was born to William Francis Lanz and Ann Margaret Lanz (Bainbridge). He is survived by his daughter - Lacey Lanz, His Grandchildren - Sebastian Lanz, Julie Nixon, Jackson Nixon, Sophie Fox, and Sawyer Fox and Step-daughter - Sheila Austin and her family and his Step-son Roy “Jamie” Austin II and his family.

In his time growing up in California, Willie loved to surf, cruise, and hang out with friends. Though he was a “mama’s boy”, he loved both of his parents dearly. He was referred to as “Bud” by his mom, dad and other family members in California.

Later in life, after his adventures in California, Willie moved to Colorado and began his life and started a family of his own there. Willie was employed for several years as a pipefitter at CF&I Steel Mill. He also worked at Log Lube, he was also a Truck Driver where he hauled cattle and most recently delivered the newspaper for the Pueblo Chieftain. At the time of his passing, Willie was taking courses to become a Locksmith.

He loved being a truck driver most because on the road, he could see the world. He ended his career with truck driving so he could be closer to his family. Willie owned his own concrete business not long after that.

Willie loved to play pool and go bowling and play horseshoes. He did play in many tournaments, and he played well. He spent a lot of time visiting friends and throwing back a few beers and playing ball at the Sports Garden, Parises, Cosmopolitan, The Broken Dollar, Porkys, The Beer Barrel. Willie made a ton of friends in life. His favorite color was purple and he couldn't keep his hands off of the watermelon and Coca-Cola.

He had a Harley, too! Oh, man did he love riding his bike! His love for Classic Rock and Oldie’s was what he called his “Freedom of Expression”. The way he spoke. He spoke through the songs he would play and that is how you knew what kind of day he was having.

He loved his road trips and camping the most. North Creek was his favorite camping area. His favorite road trip was always to California to see his mom and dad and spend some time at the beach. Boy, did he love being on the road! He would take his daughter on many road trips and camping trips throughout most of their time together. Many good memories along the way. The best!

His greatest loves were his daughter, his grandchildren, his Harley, and the open road. Willie had a lot of stories. A lot of memories. Many of which he shared with his kids, grandchildren, friends, and family.

He will be loved and cherished by all he knew. His family and friends will love and miss him for eternity.

FROM HIS DAUGHTER, LACEY:

Daddy, I see the signs every day that you're still with me. Though you can't stay for long, in my heart and memories you'll forever be. I miss you every day and I miss you every night. I wish I could have you back for the rest of my life. You were a great daddy and an even better grandfather. I am forever grateful that God chose me to be your daughter. We will love you forever, daddy. You're in the sun, the moon, the stars, and all the water in the sea. There's no better time than now to use those two words... it's after your most favorite song, daddy. Now you're a FREE BIRD!

A final ride will be at 10 AM on Saturday, September 7th. Everyone will be meeting at the abandoned Southside Kmart and heading to Bishop's Castle.

If anyone would like to make donations toward the services for Willie, please call Imperial Funeral Home at 719-564-0920.