Gerald "Jerry" D. Lahnan

Gerald “Jerry” D. Lahnan, 88, of West Springfield, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at UPMC Hamot Hospital.

He was born October 27, 1937, a son to the late Laurie and Mary (Gruzosky) Lahnan.

Jerry attended St. John’s Catholic Primary School before graduating from West Springfield High School. It was during those high school years that he met the love of his life, Renalda. The two sweethearts continued their life together for the next 70 years.

Following graduation, Jerry enlisted in the United States Navy Reserves. After returning home, he married Renalda, and together they began their family. He later attended schooling in Tool & Die and earned a position at Premix, eventually becoming the supervisor and head of the Tool & Die Department—a role he proudly held until his retirement.

Jerry was a loving family man who worked hard to provide encouragement, joy, and practical skills to those he loved. He was extremely independent, often fixing or creating whatever was needed on his own. His determination—sometimes viewed as being a hardheaded Finn—grew from his desire to ensure every project was done correctly. He added onto his home with careful attention to his wife’s wishes and built barns and additions for his family. Whenever help was needed, Jerry was quick to arrive—an enduring example of his selflessness.

The family camp became a beloved weekend retreat and hunting spot for all. Hunting and fishing were central parts of Jerry’s life for many years, as he enjoyed not only the sport but also the peace of the woods. In years past, golf clubs were swung on the fairways and snowmobiles roared across winter landscapes—a sound Jerry loved, especially since he was always the one who could repair them when they sputtered out miles from home.

He cared deeply for his home in Springfield, constantly adding, maintaining, and tinkering over the years. Each season he planted a garden that he tended with great care, even managing to grow grapes a few times before local wildlife discovered them. In quiet evenings he enjoyed researching local history, especially that of Lake Erie—a passion that grew from his time in the Navy and love of being near the water. Each fall he rooted for the Steelers, proud of their many Super Bowl victories. Jerry grew up in the Catholic faith and was an Altar server at St. John’s Catholic Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Brenda Justice; brothers, Lawrence Lahnan, Robert Lahnan, and Donald Lahnan; and brother-in-law, David Diehl.

He will be greatly missed by his family which include his wife of 68 years, Renalda (Peterson) Lahnan, whom he married August 24, 1957; daughters, Wanda Lahnan and Pam Oakes (Gary); son-in-law, Mark Justice; sisters, Judy Diehl and Sr. Mary Laureen “Connie”; grandchildren, Sheree Taylor and Rebekah Ryer (Ben); great-grandchild Oliver Ryer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to  Springfield VFD Station 64, 11959 Main St, East Springfield, PA 16411.

Services will be held privately by the family.

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