Obituary of William O. Lanning

William O. Lanning, 91 years, died peacefully at his residence, as he went home to be with the Lord on July 8, 2011. Loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Bill was a gentleman to the very end. Born on September 9, 1919, he was proud to have been a life-resident of Pitman. He began his working years along side of his father, as a sign painter, who helped to paint the very first "Everybody Likes Pitman" sign. A veteran of WWII, he served in the U.S. Army, and was a member of American Legion Post #49, for sixty-eight years. He was employed by the Mobil Oil Corporation for over thirty-nine years, and retired in 1983. Many appreciated Bill's quiet demeanor and dry sense of humor. Also, he was very-well known as "the man who could fix anything," and throughout the years, found ways to serve family and friends, fixing whatever needed to be repaired. He and his wife, Ruth, fully enjoyed their retirement, as they shared many trips together, and spent many wonderful hours with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Bill was a member of the Pitman United Methodist Church for 71 years, where he served as the Financial Secretary for over 43 years. He had also been a part of various building and financial projects over the years, and was one of the founding members of the Student Loan and Scholarship Committee. Bill enjoyed golf, photography, and as an avid bowler, as he was a member of the Del-Black Bowling League. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of over 59 years, Ruth (Hampton), Dad to children Susan (Steve) Crispin, William O. Jr. (Christine), and Carol (Jeffrey) Crispin, and "Pop-Pop" to 11 grandchildren, Joe (Erin), Jon, Kellie (Seth) Frost, Karlie Crispin, William O. III, and Brian Lanning, Aaron, Ryan, Leah, Joanna, and Rebecca Crispin, and his 5 great-grandchildren, Abigail, Elijah, Naomi, and Isaiah Crispin, and Micah Frost. Friends may call on Tuesday evening at the Pitman United Methodist Church, 758 N. Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071, from 7 to 9 pm, and on Wednesday from 3 to 4 pm. The funeral service will be held, Wednesday, at 4 pm. Interment private. Those desiring, may make contributions to the Pitman United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, or Student Loan Fund at the above address. Memories may be shared at www.kelleyfhpitman.com.