In Loving Memory of Lanny Dean Bezner

Lanny Dean Sawyer Bezner, 84, of Dalhart, Texas, passed away on July 12, 2026. Lanny will receive guests from 4-8:00pm on Friday, July 17, 2026 at the funeral home. A Rosary will be recited at 10:00am and Mass will be celebrated in his honor at 10:30am on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church with Father Tony Neusch as Celebrant. Arrangements are entrusted to Dalhart Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Lanny was born on October 22, 1941, in Amarillo, Texas. In 1954, he was adopted by Lucille and Leo Bezner and was raised on the family farm in Bushland, Texas. It was there that he developed the strong work ethic, determination, and lifelong love of agriculture that would define much of his life.

On August 10, 1963, Lanny married Rita Albracht. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and devotion, sharing nearly 63 years of marriage.

Lanny graduated from Texas Technological College, now Texas Tech University, in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education. He remained a proud alumnus and lifelong supporter of the Texas Tech Red Raiders.

He began his professional career with Tri-State Chemical, where he distinguished himself as an award-winning sales representative. However, farming was always in his blood. Through ambition, perseverance, and hard work, Lanny purchased land and established an agricultural operation of his own. He continued farming and ranching for the remainder of his life, building a legacy that reflected his independence, resilience, and deep connection to the land.  Lanny worked until his last breath, literally.  Leaving a list of things that needed done back at the farm with his nurse. 

Lanny was a devoted member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. He was a man of deep and abiding faith who sought to live his beliefs through his actions, his dedication to his family, and the way he treated those around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille and Leo Bezner; his brothers, Ronnie Bezner, Lynn Bezner, and Jerry Bezner; and his grandson, Keagan Bezner.

Lanny is survived by his beloved wife, Rita Bezner; his children, John Bezner and wife Pam, Virginia Arguello and husband Frank, Brian Bezner and wife Alicia, Robin Forsythe and husband Michael, Amanda Smith and husband Blake, and Mark Bezner and wife Jenny; and his siblings, Mike Bezner, Frankie Bezner, Barbara Simmons, Linda Metcalf, and Aletha Sawyer.

He is also survived by his fourteen grandchildren, Chelsy Ritter, Bryce Bezner, Colton Bezner, Jordin McKinney, Max Arguello, Harley Banks, William Bezner, Peyton Forsythe, Cole Smith, Grant Smith, Brock Bezner, Carson Bezner, Miles Bezner, and Audrey Bezner. Lanny was further blessed with ten great-grandchildren, with one more eagerly awaited.

Lanny’s life was marked by faith, perseverance, and an enduring commitment to his family and the land he loved. His example, wisdom, and legacy will remain deeply rooted in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Lanny’s honor to:

St. Anthony’s Catholic School S.A.I.N.T.S. Trust 

2046 Shawnee Trail

Dalhart, Texas 79022