The town of Verona, New Jersey, and the wider Montclair area are mourning the profound loss of Steve Lanzo, a man whose life was a testament to community service and a passion for youth athletics. Steve’s passing has sent shockwaves through the local hockey world, particularly within the Montclair Hockey Club, where he was a fixture for many years. As a dedicated coach, a tireless board member, and a mentor to hundreds of young athletes, his influence reached far beyond the scoreboard.
Throughout his tenure in Verona and Montclair, Steve was recognized as a steady, guiding presence. He didn’t just teach the fundamentals of the game; he focused on building character. To Steve, the ice was a classroom where he instilled the vital values of teamwork, discipline, and mutual respect. His commitment to the families of the club made the organization feel less like a sports program and more like a tight-knit family. He gave his time selflessly, often working behind the scenes on the board to ensure that the club flourished for the betterment of every player involved.