Passing….

Richard Lawson

Leah Lawson tells me the celebration of life for Richard Lawson is this Saturday at one…his passing at the age of 66 has been a big shock to this community, and he is much missed. Here’s more:

Richard Lee Lawson was born September 30, 1944 in Friday Harbor WA to Gilbert and Geraldine Lawson. Richard lost his fight with cancer on January 26, 2010 at The University of Washington Medical Center.

Richard was born in the Lawson farmhouse on West Valley Rd. Farming, raising cattle, and riding horses were his life-long passion. He was a graduate with the Friday Harbor class of 1961, and then served several years in the Air Force which started his love for the sky.  Richard was often in the air flying whether it was in a fixed wing airplane or helicopter and was always willing to help a fellow islander that needed, or wanted, a ride. Richard lived his life to the fullest, traveling to Africa, Australia, Alaska and many other places around the world.  Fishing, hunting, or riding horse in the pursuit of the great outdoors.

Richard Lawson was a well known businessman. Starting the Lawson Quarry and Lawson Construction in the early 1970’s, he supplied all the islands with gravel, concrete, and asphalt. His professional reputation followed him; he was a leader in his field. Among his many accomplishments was his last, the development of Lawson Ridge; it will serve as his lasting legacy to the island. Richard was a proud member of the community always willing to offer a helping hand, or donate to a good cause. His can-do attitude and charming smile will be sorely missed.

He left behind his mother Jeri Lawson, son Richard Jr.  (wife Tricia), son Tommy (wife Leah), Stepson Chris (wife Sherry) & their sons, Chaz, Parker, and Gabe. 4 other grandkids Jordan, Ashley, Brandy Lee, and Dylan, Brother Victor Lawson and Sister Ruthie Paull, nieces Cathy VanZanten and Ashley Paull, nephews Rob Lawson, Adam Paull and countless other relatives and friends.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at 1pm on Saturday February 6, at The Lestralaur Ranch in Friday Harbor WA. The ranch is located on San Juan Valley Rd. Please bring a dish to share and your best Richard story to tell.

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