Judy Lee (Breno) Ganz

Judy (Breno) Ganz, 77, passed away peacefully on Jan. 24, 2026, in her home. Born on Feb. 14, 1948, in Elyria, Ohio, Judy lived a life of service marked by dedication to her family, the lives she touched as an educator, and the women she helped overcome alcoholism.

Judy was a proud friend of Bill and Bob, and she celebrated 29 years of sobriety on Jan. 10th. Helping others was a bright spot in her life, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of those touched by her sometimes blunt, but always kind words.

Amongst those that knew her, she was known for her klutziness, yet UFC like resilience. Though she battled health problems throughout the last decade of her life, she never stopped inspiring others.

Professionally, Judy taught for over 20 years in the Canton Local School District, helping students with learning disabilities. One of the first Certified Reading Specialist in the state, there are many adults who can read now because of the time they spent with Mrs. Ganz.

She is survived by her loving husband and best friend, Frank Ganz. Judy was one of three children and is survived by her sister, Brenda (Breno) Kammer and brother, Tom Breno.

She also leaves behind her son, Micheal Ganz, his wife, Kelly, and granddaughter, Charlotte, as well as her daughter, Katy Ganz and her husband, Nick Petrus.

Judy was known for her love of the ocean, knitting, and bird watching. She felt closest to her Higher Power in her garden and though a teacher, mentor, and scholar, it was her last role as a grandmother she loved most of all.

Calling hours will be held on Jan. 31st from 12-2pm at Lamiell Funeral Home, with services immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital www.stjude.org and the Stark County Humane Society www.starkhumane.org. Kindly share your condolences at www.lamiellfuneralhome.com, sharing the countless lives Judy touched through her compassion and strength. Her legacy will continue to live on in every life she helped change. May her memory be a blessing and a source of comfort during this difficult time.