Obituary of Elmer V. Lanci

Schodack-Elmer Vincent Lanci, age 71, died on June 13, 2023 at home, under hospice care through St. Peter’s Hospital, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

He graduated from Columbia High School in 1969 and SUNY Brockport with a BS degree in 1973.  After college he joined the US Navy and earned his wings as a Naval Aviator in 1975.  Vince spent 6 years on active duty at NAS Cubi Point in the Philippines as a COD pilot (carrier on board delivery) shuttling cargo and passengers to various aircraft carriers stationed in the far east. 

That was followed by another tour at NAS Corpus Christi, TX, as an instructor pilot.  Continuing his ambition to become an airline pilot he had several jobs as a corporate pilot and commuter pilot before finally getting hired at People Express Airlines which eventually became part of United Airlines.  He retired as a Boeing 777 Captain in 2016 after 31 years of service.

Vince also managed to complete 20 years in the NY Air National Guard and retired as a Major at the 109^th Airlift Wing based in Scotia, NY, in 2000.  While at the “109^th” he flew many support missions in support of the National Science Foundation to the South Pole in Antarctica and Greenland on ski equipped C-130 aircraft.

Vince was a lifetime member of the American Legion, Melvin Roads Post 1231, where he was an active member and supporter of their many efforts to support the local community.  He was also a member of the Quiet Birdmen and of the Nassau Sportsman’s Club.  He enjoyed hunting, trying to improve his golf game and working around his home in Schodack.

Vince made many close friends because of his gregarious nature and they made his final “flight” west much more bearable, especially Rick Weiss and loving partner Lynette, along with his large family network of cousins and nephews and nieces. Vince was most proud of his role as father to Cara and Nick and will be missed.

Family and friends are invited and may call on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 from 10 am to 12pm to the W.J. Lyons, Jr., Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A funeral service will follow at 12pm at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in East Greenbush.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Elmer’s memory to the Melvin Roads American Legion Post.