Eugenio Lanza, a longtime resident of the Bronx, died on February 22, 2026. He was 93.
Mr. Lanza was born on December 7, 1932 in Montecalvo, Italy to the late Antonio and Antonietta (DeStasio) Lanza. Eugene came to the United States from Italy when he was very young and mastered his trade as a tailor by working at his uncle’s clothing factory, where he later became a part owner with his cousin, Luigi. Although he experienced many hardships in his lifetime, Eugene alwasys found a way to look at the positives and be grateful for all that he had. His gentle and selfless nature was visible in all that he did. You could find him sitting on the couch with his phone book close by, reaching out to everyone to se how they were doing, sincerely interested in their lives. No matter what he was going through he never hesitated to be there for others, whether celebrating their success, lending words of advice, or simply listening.
Eugenio or “Eugene” to most, lived by the philosophy that family is the most important thing. He was known by many as a special brother, zio, and friend, but most importantly he was a beloved Husband, Father, and Nonno. In each of these roles he consistently displayed never ending love, devotion, hope, generosity, and respect. Eugene was a man of faith who loved his family and friends and was happiest when everyone was together. Whether it was the annual Christmas Eve celebration, a holiday, Sunday dinner or a random Tuesday, he relished the time he spent with his family.
He was predeceased by his wife Gina and daughter Elena. He leaves behind his daughter Annette and husband Salvatore, son Roberto and wife Carla, and his son-in-law Joseph, who was married to Elena, grandchildren Christina (married to Fabio), Alyssa (married to Andrew), Nicholas (engaged to Monica), Emma, Gabriella, Francesca, Olivia, and Sofia. Great granddaughter Amelia. Step-granddaughters Juliana and Ellena. His brother in Italy, Raimondo, and his wife Libera. Additionally his many beloved sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, cousins, and many nieces and nephews here and in Italy.
Eugene taught his children and grandchildren that what truly matters in life is to “always do the right thing,” because at the end of the day there is nothing you can regret. Whether you knew him for moments, a day, or years, he was loved by all. We shall miss his smile that always greeted us, his sense of humor, and his stories that always began with, “in my town.” Eugene was an amazing role model and his family is blessed with the lessons and traditions he and his wife instilled in them. His family takes comfort in all the wonderful memories he gave them and that he is reunited with his wife, Gina, and daughter, Elena.
Visiting will be Sunday, March 1 from 4pm to 8pm at John Dormi & Sons Funeral Home, 1121 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, March 2 at 10am at St. Clare’s Church, 1908 Paulding Avenue, Bronx. Entombment at Ferncliff Cemetery, 280 Secor Road, Hartsdale. In Lieu of flowers the family prefers donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
