Lantz Robert Repp, 75, of Pickerington, Ohio, formerly of Athens, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026, surrounded by family and his dog, Gabby.

Lantz was born in Goshen, Indiana, on June 15, 1950, to Robert Leroy Repp and Elizabeth Wrightzel Repp. He was preceded in death by his parents (1963 and 1979), his in-laws A.W. "Bill" Matters, Jr. and Elaine Hess Matters, his brother-in-law Robert H. Matters, and several aunts and uncles.

Lantz married the love of his life, Kathryn (Kathy) Matters Repp, in 1969, beginning a partnership that would span decades and shape a family rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering loyalty. There simply wasn't a Lantz without a Kathy. Together, they built their life along the banks of the Ohio River in Hockingport, where memories were made in the rhythm of water, seasons, and togetherness.

He was a devoted father to Rochelle and Jason, taking immense pride in the people they became. His influence lives on through them—in their strength, their humor, and their way of showing up for others. He was a proud "Poppop" to Reagan, Peyton, and Parker, who brought him endless joy. He loved to tease them, make them laugh, and remind them—often with a grin—that he was still the sharpest one in the room.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Kathy; daughter, Rochelle (Jeff) Nelson; son, Jason; and granddaughters, Reagan Repp, Peyton Nelson, and Parker Nelson.  His sisters-in-laws, Pamela Pierson and Camellia Matters; a brother-in-law, Tom Pierson; nieces, Jeni (Scott) Hendricks, Alison (Gerald) Pierson, and Lindsay (Andy) Matters; a special granddaughter, Kelly (Patrick and Owen) McGowan, and the Nelson and Baker families.

Lantz was a respected businessman and a proud veteran who served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1975. His career included leadership roles as General Manager at Kerr Distributing, Vice President of University Estates, Sales Manager of the Pepsi Plant, and Mobility Coordinator at HAPCAP, where he was instrumental in launching the GoBus. Wherever he went, he built not just professional success but lifelong friendships that he treasured deeply.

A gifted athlete, Lantz was a standout in football, baseball, and golf during his high school years. Golf, however, became his lifelong passion—a quiet, relentless pursuit of excellence. A scratch golfer, he was a familiar name on the sports pages of The Athens Messenger for many years. He picked up the game at age 14 and played his final round just last fall with his son—an ending that feels fitting for a life so intertwined with the game.

He was a past member of Riverside Golf Club, the Athens Country Club, and Cumberland Trail Golf Course, where he shared countless rounds with friends who became like family. Lantz was a student of the game and a generous teacher, always ready with a tip, a story, or a bit of hard-earned wisdom to help others enjoy golf as much as he did.

His love of sport extended beyond the course. He was an Athens Boat & Ski Club member in Hockingport for many years. He waterskied—and barefooted—with fearless joy, landing jumps and then turning around to teach others how to do the same. Summers were filled with laughter on the water and evenings around the campfire, where Lantz would play guitar, sing, and create the kind of moments people carry with them for a lifetime.

He was also a dedicated coach, giving his time to little league football and girls' softball, and rarely missed a chance to cheer on his grandchildren at their activities. Whether on a sideline, in a boat, or on a golf course, Lantz showed up fully.

Following in the footsteps of his father and father-in-law, Lantz was a proud member of the Athens Elks Lodge and Paramuthia Masonic Lodge #25, where he was honored last fall for 50 years of membership—a testament to his commitment, character, and community.  He was the youngest President of the Athens County Shrine Club.

He also loved NASCAR, enjoying races with friends and family, where the engines were loud, the competition fierce, and the company even better.

Lantz will be remembered for his quick wit, his steady presence, his love of teaching, and his deep devotion to the people in his life. He had a way of making others feel seen, challenged, and cared for—all at the same time.

His legacy is not just in what he accomplished, but in the lives he shaped, the laughter he sparked, and the memories he helped create—moments that will continue to echo for generations.

We are so grateful to everyone who reached out to Dad after we shared the "Living Celebration" post. Your words, memories, and love brought him comfort and meant more than you'll ever know.

A celebration of Lantz's life will take place at the Pine Lake Resort, 1550 Hebbardsville Rd., Atbany on June 27, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.  Arrangements are with Jagers & Sons Funeral Home.  Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Shelter Dogs, PO Box 576, Athens, OH 45701.