Richard A. "Rick" Lanza 60 renowned HIV/AIDS activist , passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 27, 2015. He was born February 10,1955 in Cleveland. Rick began his career as a professional ballroom dancer , instructor and choreographer. He continued as an adjudicator for ballroom competitions until his death. Mr. Lanza was a founding member of the Lorain County AIDS Task Force and served as its Executive Director for many years. During his career with LCATF , Rick developed HIV/AIDS outreach services , education and prevention services , support groups , and a food pantry. Primarily as a result of his activism , Lorain County leads the state in testing for HIV/AIDS status. He was also a community speaker to many schools and organizations on the HIV/AIDS population and their needs. He counseled those who tested positive and connected them to the appropriate health care and services. Mr. Lanza was the 2015 recipient of the Jimmy L. Davis Spirit of Community Award (Second Harvest) for his service to individuals and families infected / affected by HIV/AIDS. Rick was a full time volunteer at LCATF and never received a salary for his considerable work which touched hundreds of lives in the community. In addition to his volunteer work , Mr. Lanza also enjoyed Latin music , dancing and traveling to Mexico. Survivors include his Life Partner Mitchel Leaver , Father of 3 , grandfather of 4, siblings Debbie (Jim) Zito , Tina Lanza , Angela Lanza , Jim (Debbie) Lanza , Tami Cook , Melissa Smith , Rocky Edmonds and Christopher Bright (Drinda), and a multitude of family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Iva (nee Springer) , brother Joseph Lanza. Family will receive friends 5-7 PM Friday January 8, 2016 at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at St. Rt. 57) Elyria. 440-322-4626 , where services will be held at 7 PM. Rev. Max Rodas will officiate. Burial will be Private. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the family c/o the Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com Service: 7 PM Friday January8, 2016 Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elyria Visitation: 5-7 PM Friday January 8, 2016 Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elyria