Willie G. Lawrence

Willie G. Lawrence, 83, of Thornton, Colorado passed away on September 20, 2021. He died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his wife and family.

Willie was born to the late Thomas and Pauline (Besch) Lawrence in San Antonio, Texas on December 16, 1937. Willie was one of four sons, raised with brothers Raliegh, Thomas and Michael. Willie graduated from Jefferson High School and joined the Army National Guard in 1956.

He married Patricia in 1957. Willie and Patty's family grew over the years, and they had three children together: David, Shannon and Jonathan. The family moved from San Antonio, Texas to Denver, Colorado in 1966. Patty passed away in 2008 after 51 years of marriage. Willie married Claudia in 2009 and shared the last 12 years with her and a large, blended family.

Willie was a dedicated family and godly man. He treasured his family and embraced time with them, particularly the large family gatherings for birthdays and holidays, and quiet visits with good food. His Sunday morning routine was to view sermons televised nationwide due to his inability to attend church in person.

Willie was a hard worker and a machinist. His career expanded from Dow Chemical, Rocky Flats and Coors, when he retired. He was the master fixer of anything that needed modified. He left his signature "fix" on everything he worked on. He crafted beautiful walking sticks and leather apparel to hold just about anything. During his time in the Army, he was a Sharpshooter Rifleman, and had a love for guns of all kinds. One of his favorite past times was target shooting with his sons and friends.

Willie was also a professional clown. He would apply his makeup and dress in clown attire to participate with the New Destiny Clown Ministry. He brought much joy to kids of all ages with his dear friend Andy Sanchez. Willie also recruited his wife, Claudia, to be "Granny Giggles".

Willie is survived by his wife Claudia; brothers Thomas and Michael; children: David (Christine), Shannon (Richard) Anderson, Jonathan (Judy), Beverly (Bryan) Fuller, Debby (Eric) Holgerson; 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and seven nieces, as well as his faithful dog, Obie. Willie was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Patty, Aunt Trudy and his brother Raleigh.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at the Carpenter Park West Pavilion, 3498 E. 112th Ave., Thornton, CO 80233.