Lanzo, James “Jim”

The family announces with great sorrow the passing of James “Jim” Lanzo, at the age of 76, after a brief battle with cancer.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Nancy, his sons Greg (Clarissa) and Andrew (Christina), and his cherished grandchildren Callie and Zavier. He will also be dearly missed by so many friends and extended family.

For more than 60 years, Jim stood behind the counter at Madison Confectionery, not only as a shopkeeper, but as a friend to neighbourhood families for generations.

After taking over the family business from his father, James Sr., Jim became a longstanding fixture in the New Sudbury community.

From hosting community barbecues to offering a daily spot for coffee, news, and spirited political banter, the store—through Jim's enduring presence—became a true neighbourhood staple.

To this day, so many people recount their happy memories at the store either as customers, employees (he was often described as "The Best Boss Ever"), or just old friends happy to swing by and chew the fat with Jim—often recounting wildly exaggerated tales of their high school football prowess. As the noseguard for the Lasalle Lancers, Jim assured everybody that his team could have easily beaten any NFL team in existence!

Politics were another lifelong passion for Jim. Since his teens, he was deeply engaged at all levels, volunteering for boards and organizations, running for city council, and serving proudly as a director with the Northern Ontario Development Corporation.

Behind the political scenes, Jim was known for his skill in campaign strategy, his dedication to policy work, and his ability to forge lasting friendships within the political arena.

Having retired only months ago, Jim was eager to continue tending to his gardens with Nancy, expanding his wine cellar, and travelling the world with the wonderful love of his life—no longer needing to be forcibly torn away from the store to enjoy a cruise.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (give or take) at the Jubilee Centre located at 195 Applegrove Street, Sudbury.  (please use the west doorway to access the Hall).  Refreshments and snacks will be served throughout the celebration.

Ample parking is available across the street at the Sudbury Courthouse (please refrain from parking in any of the reserved spots).

Family and friends are welcome to join in sharing stories and honouring a man whose presence, humour, and heart left a mark on everyone he met. His passing has left a hole in our hearts that seems impossible to fill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to Pet Save Sudbury https://petsavesudbury.com/donate/  or Maison McCulloch Hospice https://maisonsudburyhospice.org/donate.