Obituary of John William Lane, III

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Captain John William Lane III on April 30, 2025. A devoted husband to his beloved wife, Nicolette (Ruben) Lane, John was also a loving son, brother, accomplished pilot, and proud American. His life was defined by service, passion, and deep love for his family, his country, and the skies.

Born on September 18, 1993 to Retired Sergeant Major Dr. John W. Lane Jr. and Irene Lane of Lebanon, Connecticut, John was a lifelong learner with a sharp mind and generous spirit. He earned a dual degree in manufacturing engineering and business from the University of Connecticut, where he cultivated a deep intellectual curiosity and commitment to excellence that carried through every aspect of his life.

Captain Lane began his military career as an enlisted Airman on December 30, 2011, commissioning as an officer and rising to the rank of Captain and proudly served for over 13 years. As a C-130 pilot with the 103rd Airlift Wing based out of Bradley Air National Guard Base in Windsor Locks, John took great pride in his mission, his crew (the “Flying Yankees”) and his country. He loved his role and found true joy in flying—he was always happy when he was in the sky.

John flew numerous high-risk combat missions into austere environments, often under marginal weather and threat of enemy fire—including small arms, anti-aircraft artillery, and surface-to-air missiles. For his courageous actions, he was awarded the Air Medal. John’s military decorations also include the Aerial Achievement Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, and Air Force Achievement Medal. 

John was a man of quiet strength, compassion, and integrity. He was proud of his service, grounded by his values, and brought joy to those around him, especially during peaceful moments spent at home with Nicolette and their beloved dog, Scout.

He is deeply missed by his wife and parents, his brother, Sean Lane; and his in-laws, Marc and Laureen Ruben. He was a proud godfather to Maeve Ruben and beloved uncle to Benjamin Ruben Jr., children of his brother- and sister-in-law Benjamin and Nina Ruben. His memory will be cherished by countless extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by his warmth, loyalty, and strength of character. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 8:30 AM at SS. Isidore and Maria Parish in St. Paul Church, 2577 Main St., Glastonbury. Burial, with Military Honors, will be in the CT State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Connecticut National Guard Foundation, Inc. https://ctngfi.org/how-to-help. For online condolences, please visit www.mulryanfh.com.