Edwin Don Lawrence's Obituary
Don was a devoted husband to Kathy, a loving father to Jenny and Josh, and a proud grandfather to Emma and Liam. By trade, he was an electrician—steady, skilled, and dependable. But the work of his hands was only part of the story. His true legacy lives in the lives he touched, the family he raised, and the quiet, faithful way he walked through this world.
He served his country with honour in Vietnam, where he earned the respect of those around him—not just for his service, but for his character. He was, as his family so lovingly describes him, the most patient Christian man they ever knew—never one to complain, never one to ask for recognition. He simply did what was right, day after day, year after year.
He lived out his faith through action—steadfast, humble, and kind. His was a strength that didn’t need to shout. It simply showed up—every single day.
And yes, he had a sense of humour that could surprise you. There’s a story from Vietnam that captures it perfectly.
There was a young soldier in his unit—a bit of a mama’s boy—who received a care package from home with a Monopoly game in it. Well, Don and his squad saw an opportunity for some fun. They took the Monopoly money into town, found a local bar, and—with perfectly straight faces—told the owner it was U.S. military currency. They had themselves a party that night. Eventually, word of it made its way to the squad leader, but no one ever gave them up. That was the kind of respect and loyalty he inspired—even in mischief.
He lived his life with purpose, with quiet strength, and with a deep love for his family. He didn’t need attention. He didn’t seek out praise. He simply gave—of himself, of his time, of his love.
And when asked once why his best friend, Tommy Galbraith, seemed to be the only friend he kept in regular touch with, he said something that stays with us all. “Son,” he told Josh, “when you get to be my age—if you can count your true friends on one hand, you’re a lucky man.”
That honesty. That humility. That wisdom. It tells you everything about the kind of man he was.
What’s your fondest memory of Edwin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Edwin?
Share a story where Edwin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Edwin you’ll never forget.
How did Edwin make you smile?
