When Ed was young, scarlet fever severely affected part of his brain and even today he can read but cannot write. Instead, he has developed another part of his brain that most people do not use – the part that uses symbolism and numbers.

His father taught him marquetry – the craft of covering a wood base with small pieces of wood to form patterns or pictures. He also learned the carpentry trade which he used in the Kalkaska area to build houses until he divorced.

He found employment in Orlando, and it was during this time that he became awakened to the call from God to create the panels.

He sees the completed panels in his mind before the work is even begun, and he never sketches the panels – the biblical scenes are pre-assembled only in his brain.

He is now back in Kalkaska and takes most of his meals at Big Boy. He works on the panels in the old Craft House warehouse, until a more permanent home can be found for them. The panels are not for sale - Lantzer’s wish is that somehow his work may benefit unloved children whether it be spiritually, financially or artistically.