Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Richard Wojcik Funeral Director - Robert Lawrence Funeral Service Arrangements






ROBERT DAVID LAWRENCE

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Robert (Bob) Lawrence with his family by his side on Thursday, November 22, 2012 at the Grace Hospital at the age of 78 years.
Left to cherish Robert’s memory are his children, Jeff, Brad (Lorraine); siblings Lillian, Rick (Shirley), Doreen, Treina (Stephen); sister-in law Eileen (Fred); as well as many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by the love of his life Marilyn on Valentine’s Day of this year; and his parents, Edith and David.
Dad was born and raised in Eriksdale, MB.  At around age 17, he headed west to work in BC. Later he worked in the Whiteshell and then landed in Winnipeg.  Dad met his wife to be on a blind date.  They married on October 7, 1960, and had two sons who were his pride and joy.   One of Dad’s greatest loves was the outdoors.  He was content doing anything as long as it was outside.  On a snowy day he could be found outside shovelling the walk 4-5 times.  His snow free sidewalk and driveway were the envy of many.  Whether he was shovelling, chopping wood, cutting the lawn or doing any of his many wood working projects, Dad’s meticulous nature was evident.  He took great pride in whatever he did.  No job was more important than another and no job was beneath him. 
Over the years much time was spent together and many family memories were created at Lee River, and St. Malo.  Dad could often be found being supervised by Mom while tending the garden or stoking the flames of a campfire.  His philosophy was that wood was never too green, or too wet as long as you had enough gasoline.  Dad was a big sports fan.  He had a love / hate relationship with his Winnipeg teams.  It’s hard to know how many hours dad clocked listening to CJOB following them.  Dad was always interested in current affairs, loved reading National Geographic and solving the daily jumble puzzle in the Winnipeg Free Press.
Dad was an understated guy with a very mischievous and playful side.  The things that seemed to bring this out most were candy, gifts and Garfield movies.  He would always strategically place himself nearest the candy dish and watch out if you were the person sitting next to him for soon you would be framed for the pile of empty candy wrappers that were to appear.  He was a shrewd gift guesser.  As soon as you gave Dad a gift, actually you only needed to tell him there was one for him, he would begin guessing what it was.  It was hilarious to watch as, time and time again, Brad tried to mask gifts for Dad. Defeat was inevitable and when it came it always came with Dad’s smirk of victory.  He always loved the Garfield movies.  Watching these became part of our Christmas tradition.  There were times where we wanted to hurry through dinner to get to the main event.  There was just something about a big fat talking orange cat that would push Dad to the edge.  Dad’s belly laugh was infectious; before you knew it we were all in tears.
Family was important to Dad.  He enjoyed family dinners at Brad and Lorraine’s but nothing made him happier than a great meal followed by a double portion of dessert.  He loved his weekends at the lake, going to fall suppers with Mom and Jeff, and holiday celebrations with the Lawrence clan.       
In compliance with Dad’s wishes no formal service will be held. 
The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the staff at Charleswood Care Center who provided care to Dad in his final years. 
In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to a charity of their choice.
Wojcik’s Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements.

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