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John Lawrence Obituary
Pittsford: March 5th 1966- October 9th, 2008. On Thursday, October 9th following a courageous 4-year battle with cancer. He was predeceased by his father, Dr. Robert Marshall Lawrence. survived by his beloved mother, Dr. Ruth Anderson Lawrence; eight siblings, Stephen (Sheila), Joan Lawrence (Tony Cotrupe), Mary Khalil (David), David (Felicia), Kathy Lawrence (Barry Morris), Tim (Edith), Barbara Asselin (Dennis), and Robert (Rachel). He is also survived by and adored by his 21 nieces and nephews, Riley Lawrence, Nellie, Henry and Lucy Cotrupe; Hannah, Victoria, and Daniel Khalil; David Lee and Ryan Lawrence; Max, Madeleine, and Jackson Morris; Nate and Eli Lawrence; Robert, Patrick, and Michael Asselin; Justin, Thomas, Ashlyn, and Ben Richards. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He will be remembered fondly by many friends, colleagues, students, and families whose lives he has touched.
He will be remembered as a son, a brother, an uncle, a teacher, a teacher of teachers, a coach, a published author and editor, a reader, a friend, a mentor, a valedictorian, a poet, a founder, a director, a godfather, a dean, a professor, a student, a leader, a champion, a pied piper, and a star!
John graduated Valedictorian from McQuaid Jesuit High School 1984, and Georgetown University with a B.A. in English Literature, 1989, where he received the Bellarmine Scholarship. He also graduated summa cum laude from Harvard University with a M.Ed in Administration, Planning and Policy, attended Columbia University's Institute for Writing and Thinking, and currently was a doctoral candidate at the University of Rochester's School of Leadership.
One of John's lifelong goals was to be the best possible educator he could be. During his 20 plus years in the field of education he devoted his life, his mind and his soul to the education of children. His career encompasses 3 years as an English teacher and Coach at Allendale Columbia School, where he taught into the spring of 2008. He also worked for five years as an English teacher and Dean of Students at the prestigious Prep for Prep School in New York City, English teacher, Director of Student Life and a three sport coach at The East Woods School in Oyster Bay, NY; Adjunct English Professor at the New York Institute of Technology; Co-Founder and Director of Onteora Summer Camp in Tannersville, NY, and Co-Founder and Director of the Sursum Corda Children's Literacy Program in Washington, D.C.
Prep for Prep is a school located in New York City and is very dear to John's heart. Prep for Prep identifies talented students from the New York City Public School System, exceptional students from minority backgrounds, and provides them with accelerated academic traning in order to place them in independent schools. Prep for Prep has, arguably, the strongest college placement record of any school in the country. In lieu of flowers, John and his family wish that donations be made to Prep For Prep in his name. Donations may be made online at www.prepforprep.org or you may send donations to Prep for Prep at 328 West 71st Street, NY, NY 10023.
Friends may call Monday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at ZORNOW-HEDGES FUNERAL HOME, 21 Lincoln Ave., Pittsford (off Main Street, south of four corners) and may go directly to St. Thomas More Church, Tuesday at 3:00 PM for his funeral mass. Interment, White Haven Memorial Park.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Lawrence
Sponsored by A good friend.
Kim M
December 25, 2024
Holidays are the worst! You are greatly missed.
Hans Blaakman
October 23, 2024
Hey my friend thinking of you as I ran into your mother and sister recently.
RIP
Hans
A good friend
April 2, 2023
Just thinking of you today. Family and especially your nieces and nephews miss you so much, but you are always in their hearts.
November 25, 2018
Can't believe it's been over 10 years. When the holidays hit, it's the worst. You are missed dear friend. Your life is a stalwart standard for the rest of us.
May 18, 2018
Lilac Ball coming up on June 11. I hate to go because I always think of you. Honoring Marty Lipton from Wachtel and they care but you were the person that made a difference in those students lives. Now there are these immunotherapy drugs for melanoma and I have nothing but missing you and regret. We love you. An old friend
September 21, 2017
It's almost 9 years and I remember so much. You are not forgotten young man. Your students and friends remember. No one will remember me as they remember you. One of a kind.
June 3, 2017
Hi Dan, NY. I think about John every day too. Prep for Prep Lilac Ball is coming up June 12. Any time I attend all the staff always remember you as Dean of Students and your love/commitment, connection, success with students. And something about finger puppets that I don't totally understand and a slang of the day or something like that. What a gift to them all. You changed people's lives, which is more than I can say for my job. KM
Dan
January 29, 2017
I still think about you every day, my inspiration
Karla Shepard Rubinger
April 23, 2016
As the annual June Gala approaches for Prep for Prep, I will of course , again, be thinking of John. He and this organization are shining examples of the good in the world. And, always, thinking of his incredible Mom who continues to make this world a better place, every day.
April 22, 2016
I still think about him. I read the book. I laughed at all the us things. I am beyond blessed to have been a spoke connected to his wheel of life.
-Love
March 8, 2016
I still look at these pages after all these years and notes from family, friends and STUDENTS. We should all live such a thorough life, although we miss you so much and yours was far too short. I read these memories and I know that you are with us.
KM
Dan Khalil
January 20, 2016
Over 7 years ago I lost my best friend. I love you Uncle John
martha o'connor
October 9, 2012
four years already old friend...it still stops my breath that you are gone. I cherish the moments while sharing the pianobench at your family's compelling table when you keenly commented on something, hilariously, quietly...You always made me feel seen, special, as though I were in some secret order of the young ones from big families. Your debonair company is sorely missed. big love to you john now all around us...martha joan
Danielle Reilly
October 25, 2010
Dear Lawrence family,
I am an old friend of Chopper's from Breckenridge. I often think of your family and I just learned of this very sad news about John. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Although I only spent a few brief visits with John many years ago when Chopper and I visited him in Cambridge, up in Tannersville and at some of your family events, he truly was a person that touched people. He was smart and funny, engaging and inspiring. We admired him for his accomplishments and drive. I am thankful that I got to know him at all. I send you all my deepest sympathy and wish you all well.
Danielle (Maggio) Reilly
Bev Grifffith
November 17, 2009
i miss our e mails and still have them saved, i miss the laughs we had together about josh and the "gay Jumper" but most of all i miss your big smile whenever i walked into your classroom and the " hey thought i heard yr british accent" as you came to sit next to me on the step at allendale.
Mark Braiman
November 14, 2009
I am so sorry, Rob, Barb, Tim, David, Cathy, Mary, Joan, Chopper (sorry, I could not resist, but I don't think I once called you Stephen)...I guess the last time I saw Jonn was in the summer of 1975 when I was a playground counselor at Indian Landing...It is so painful to know that he is gone. I had not learned of this until today, over 1 year after his passing. Having read of all his interests and accomplishments, I deeply regret not having known John as an adult, and I hope any of you who want to get back in contact with me and my siblings will do so. We occasionally talk of the fun times we had playing in our respective back yards, our two huge families. Please do not hesitate to contact me at Syracuse University, where I teach chemistry/biochemistry.
Anonymous
September 20, 2009
I worked with John at East Woods School in Oyster Bay, NY. I was shocked to hear of his untimely demise. My condolences to his family, friends, students, and colleagues. May he be in peace with our Lord.
Brian Campos
January 25, 2009
Mr. Lawrence, thank you for dedicating your life to the advancement of our society and influencing the education of so many students. Thank you for being there during my preparatory component, ever since the beginning when I got off that bus till when you revised the speech I gave at my commencement. I always remember you fondly, as a father figure for me during those fourteen months. My family and I send our sincere condolences to the Lawrence family. You were a brave man, Mr. Lawrence, an honorable person and a sincere human being.
ariana mercado
December 26, 2008
He was a great dean and prep for prep students grieve of his loss. He was a great man who accomplished much in his life. We pay our respects
Caitlyn Schwartz
November 20, 2008
He is missed.
....Day
........after
............day
................after decades
....we will still lie awake with his absence pounding in our ears. We will
....still stop
....in the midst of simple acts,
....struck by the knowledge that he can no longer
....write,
....or laugh at a pun, or
....eat popcorn straight from the pot. And we will carry on,
....aching through every day.
Jamie Deming
November 12, 2008
Thank you for John. He contributed so much in his abbreviated life, and improved the lives of so many people, including our family. Thank God he was a writer as well as a teacher, so we can still receive his wisdom and continue to learn from his poetry and prose.
madeleine
November 10, 2008
God took you before we were ready to loose you. The hardest part is to try and not be selfish and let you have your peaceful end. I'm sure you're happy where ever you are.
Jackson Morris
November 10, 2008
We will miss you.
Barry Morris
November 10, 2008
The best that can be said about John is that he lived life right. He looked for the substance in things. When he found it he not only shared it, he gave away the map. I will miss him, and I will miss the standard he set.
Iain Phillips
November 9, 2008
To the Lawrence Family,
My sincerest condolences. I know that there is no possible way that I will ever miss Mr. Lawrence as much as you, but I will always keep him in my heart, as my friend, mentor, and greatest teacher. God Speed, John Lawrence.
Danny Khalil
November 4, 2008
Dear Uncle John, to me you were always the person who knew alot of things. I will never regret that you were the MVP of the universe. you touched every one of us. I love you you and I will miss you. Go red sox , peace JCL and I LOVE YOU. J-Law I already miss you. I will miss you forever and ever.
Pauline Sakamoto
October 24, 2008
October 24, 2008
Dear Dr. Ruth Laurence,
It is with much sadness and sympathy that I extend our heartfelt sorrow to you and your family for the loss of your son John. This world lost a great leader in the field of Education.
Pauline Sakamoto (San Jose, CA)
Director of Mothers' Milk Bank President of HMBANA
Joe Waple
October 24, 2008
Tony,
Victoria and I are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Joe & Victoria Waple
Keren Abreu
October 21, 2008
When I heard of Mr. Lawrence's death, I was devastated. As a member of Contingent 27, I had the wonderful opportunity of getting to know him very well. He was such a wonderful, intelligent and considerate person. I distinctly remember shaking his hand and sharing a small joke after every Wednesday and Saturday session during my school year at Prep. Without him, Prep for Prep would not at all have been the same fantastic experience that it was for me. He played a vital role in my education and without him I would have never learned excellence, integrity, commitment and courage. I am certain that he will be greatly missed. To his family, friends, and loved ones, I send my deepest condolences. You are all in my prayers. Thank you, Mr. Lawrence for teaching me so much of what I know.
Lynn Gauthier
October 21, 2008
Dear Dr. Lawrence & my old best friend Joan,
I heard the news while on a business trip in El Paso. It was a very, very sad moment for me. John was like a brother of mine growing up in the Lawrence family. Over 20 years have past, I remember spending dinners by his side as one of the family, abbadabbadua nights. Know that my thoughts and love are with you always.
Lynn
Mary Rose Tully
October 21, 2008
Dear Ruth,
You must be so proud of John as you think with heavy heart of what he could have done, had he lived longer.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary Rose
Zachery Sosa
October 20, 2008
To the Lawrence family,
My name is Zachery Sosa and I am part of Prep for Prep's Contingent XXV. I remember Mr. Lawrence / "jlaw's" warm personality and how he did so much to help my mother and me during the Prepatory component. I will always remember his dedication to Prep for Prep, and I am very grateful for everything he has done to help so many families. I am so sorry to hear of your loss, and I offer you my deepest condolences.
Priscilla Bornmann
October 20, 2008
Dear Ruth,
Mere words are insufficient. But please know that your friends and colleagues are thinking of you at this difficult time.
Richard Piccarreto
October 20, 2008
To the Lawrence family,
My mother in Pittsford told me the sad news yesterday and I would like to express my condolences to your family. The last time I saw John was at a graduation party after finishing at McQuaid in 1984. I recall his ability to move through the work at McQuaid with nearly academic perfection and I read with great satisfaction about his work as an educator over the last 24 years.
I'm honored to have known him.
I remember Chopper too from the McQuaid days. My best to you and the rest of your family.
Dr. Max Ramirez
October 20, 2008
Estimada Dra Lawrence
Sirvase recibir mis condolencias por la perdida de su talentoso hijo.
Como promotor de lactancia y por haberle conocido en Wellstart. curso de San Diego.
Dr. M. Ramirez. Panama
Jane Balkam
October 20, 2008
Ruth and family,
I was very sorry to learn of your loss. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Vilma Chavez de Pop
October 20, 2008
DIOS DE FORTALEZA Y PAZ
Carmen Stewart
October 20, 2008
Desde Ecuador y como miembro de LA LIGA DE LA LECHE Expreso mis m?s sentidas condolencias a su madre la Dra. Ruth a quien tuve el privilegio de conocer en la ?ltima conferencia Internacional de LLL.
Ofrezco fervorosas oraciones por su progreso espiritual de John en los mundos de Dios.
Carmen de Stewart. Quito Ecuador
Kittie Frantz
October 20, 2008
Dear Ruth and family,
You have my deepest condolences in the loss of your son. In reading these wonderful messages, I can see what a great person he was and why he shall be so missed. My son is also named John Charles. I will pray that our Lord holds you in his arms during this time.
Sara Fein
October 20, 2008
My deepest condolences for the loss of this talented and beloved family member, and especially to Ruth for the loss of her child.
Renee Chung
October 20, 2008
To the Lawrence family,
I am a member of Prep for Prep's Contingent XVII. I had the great pleasure and honor of working with Mr. Lawrence during his time at Prep for Prep. Words cannot convey the great respect I have for him and I am so grateful to have been able to meet him and get to him. I offer my condolences to your family - I will never forget the great spirit and dedication he offered to the Prep for Prep community through his work.
Vera May, Monica Waisman, Marilu Ageitos
October 19, 2008
Dear Ruth, Robert and Lawrence Family,
please receive our sincere condolences in this very sad moments.
Having enjoyed your recent visit, and your generous time and professional experience; we feel very touched with the sad news and hope you'll find some relief and comfort soon.
6th Argentine Breastfeeding Congress Executive Committe.
Clara Beatriz
October 19, 2008
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Clara Beatriz
October 19, 2008
Mis condolencias para perdida tan irreparable.
Resignaci?n y fortaleza a la familia.
Familia Costa, Corrientes, Argentina
Olivia Harris
October 19, 2008
Dear Lawrence Family,
I'm from contingent 27, the last contingent in Prep that had him in 2005. I cannot explain how much he meant to us. He always had a joke for us, from the slang word of the day to the finger puppet edition of Antigone. His joy and love of teaching were so evident. He brought a smile to every face that took his class. After I graduated from Prep, he continued to mentor me, always reminding me to be true to myself, to keep friends close, and to have fun. I will never forget him, for he left an indelible mark on my life and my heart.
God bless you all.
Ann (Farrell) Robson
October 19, 2008
Dear Ruth and family,
I received word through family members who live in Rochester of John's passing. From the days of St. Thomas Moore, McQuaid and Mercy our families have been intertwined and I'm thinking of you in this time of great sorrow. May you find comfort in your memories. My father Jim was greeting John in heaven as he passed on the day before.
With Sincere Sympathy.
Judie Gubala RN,IBCLC,LLL of CT
October 19, 2008
To the Lawrence family,
May the good Lord bless and keep you at this very sad time.
Charlene Thomas
October 19, 2008
To the Lawrence Family:
I give you my deepest condolences. I am the first contingent with which Mr. Lawrence worked with back in 2000. I wanted to let you know after eight years of being in the program, he is one of the teachers that I remember the most and has left a big impact on my life. You should be proud to have son like that. I'm in college and without him and his fellow co-workers in the program, I would have never mad it this far. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Charlene Thomas
Williams College 2011
Yvette Gagnier
October 18, 2008
Joan,
I was so saddened to hear of John's passing. I have so many fond memories of Landing Road North - all those great sleep overs and sharing in the fun and crazy Lawrence household happenings! Please call - it was great to receive your email. Please send my thoughts and prayers to all.
Love
Yvette Marengo Gagnier
Alejandra Mercado
October 18, 2008
Ruth and Robert And family Lawrence:
Please have my deepest condolences on your loss. I really hope the happy memories of your son and brother John soften your pain during this difficult time.
With love
Olivia Harris
October 18, 2008
My name is Olivia Harris, and I was in Prep for Prep contingent 27. Mr. Lawrence has meant the world to me, he really has. He taught me so much, to keep those you love close, to be true to myself in all things, to have a good time. I only wish that I had kept him closer. I miss his laugh, his smile, his goofy hairstyle that one time, his puppets that were all kind of strange and that we commented would probably get him in trouble, since one had no pants and one had no shirt. I miss his eyes, the way they used to peer through you and look straight into your soul. That sounds very cliché, but that's exactly what he did. He looked into my soul, saw a girl who was a bit confused, and then guided her through the first two years of life in private school. To his mother and many brothers and sisters, who we heard so much about, God bless you. My eyes may be red right now, but yours must certainly be redder. He leaves an indelible mark on our hearts.
Rita Fishburn-Gibbs
October 18, 2008
Dear Rith and the Lawrence family,
My deepest Sympathy for the loss of your loved son John. What an excellent person he was!
May God hold all of you in the palm of His hand during these times of mourning.
(LLL-Mexico)
Eldon Ellis
October 18, 2008
Dear Ruth, I was so very sorry to learn of your son John's passing. It seems we have been linked with your family from Med School days to now. Please share my condolences with your other families as well. May our gracious God sustain you at this tiime and we will continue with our prayers and love for you.
Mark Thoman
October 18, 2008
Ruth,
We are so very sorry for your tremendous loss. I did not know you were dealing with this terrible burden and our hearts and prayers go with you and your family.
Mark and Theresa Thoman
Betty Crase
October 18, 2008
Dear Ruth and Lawrence Family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your precious son. You and your wonderful family have touched so many lives in so many ways. The strength of your family ties are an inspiration to us all. May that strength, God's enduring love, and knowing that so many people care for you carry through this difficult time.
October 17, 2008
Dr. Lawrence,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your son.
Camille Clare, MD, FACOG
NYSBC
Mary Applegate
October 17, 2008
Dear Ruth,
I was terribly sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope you are finding comfort in each other and in happy memories of John.
Harry Pellman
October 17, 2008
To the Lawrence Family,
Please accept our deepest condolences on your loss.
Harry & Tracy Pellman
Linda Kilby
October 16, 2008
To the Lawrence Family,
God bless you during you period of grief in the loss of you son, brother and uncle. May He give you the strength to go forward. May your faith and memories sustain you.
Linda M. Kilby, MS,RD,LDN
WIC Program Director/Executive Director
NORTH, Inc.
642 North Broad Street, suite 101
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Cyndy Rouse
October 16, 2008
To the Lawrence Family,
My deepest condolences on your loss. I hope the happy memories of John soften your pain during this difficult time.
Margot Mann
October 16, 2008
My sincere sympathies to the entire Lawrence family with special wishes to Drs Ruth and Robert whom I have had the privilege of knowing.
My 91 year old mother in Australia recently lost her eldest son, and I, a brother so am particularly sensitive to this loss. I wish you al G-d's comfort.
Lauren Nalaboff
October 16, 2008
Mr Lawrence,
I just want to thank you. You had a monumental part in my education. It was obvious that you loved teaching and that rubbed off on your students. I can honestly say that you made me love English and I thank you for that. You were what every teacher should strive to be to their students.
Amanda Axinn
October 16, 2008
Mr. Lawrence,
Thank you so much for everything you taught me at East Woods School. The memories of your classes and the lessons you taught will always be with me. You were such a great teacher and will always be remembered for that and your wonderful personality. May you rest in peace.
And to the Lawrence Family,
My deepest condolences. I, like all of Mr. Lawrence's students, was truly touched by him, and he will never be forgotten. I am so sorry for your loss, my heart goes out to all of you.
-Amanda
Jeff Mowers
October 15, 2008
Lawrence Family: I was so sad to hear about John's passing. It has been many many years, but I do remember John as a growing boy. He was sensitive. He had a wonderful smile and a sparkle in his eyes. I always thought he would make a difference. It is obvious that he has touched and moved many lives, which is the mark of a special teacher. May his legacy live on.
Marcia Craden
October 15, 2008
Dear Lawrence Family,
I taught with John at East Woods School, and we served together as "co-heads" of the Upper School for two years. It was a great pleasure to know John, and we have kept in touch over the years. When I heard he was ill, I sent a note with good vibes, and when I became ill about a year and half ago, he sent those vibes back to me, along with some good advice (Ignore statistics!) and the offer of assistance in interpreting medical jargon if I needed it from the doctors in his family. I am deeply saddened by his passing, as is everyone at East Woods who remembers John. Please know that he was greatly admired and respected by all of us. Perhaps the words of strangers help, in some small way, to ease the pain you must all be feeling. I hope so. Sincerely, Marcia Craden
Larry Noble
October 15, 2008
Dear Ruth and Lawrence family,
My deepest sympathy for your terrible loss. My prayers are with you and your wonderful family.
Alex and Anna W
October 15, 2008
Dear John,
this is anna and alex w. we miss you sooooo much and love you very very very much. yesterday we went with our mother to that little cafe with the great desserts, and we sat in the same table we sat with you after we went ice skating. we knew you were there with us because we know how much you loved desserts. we love you and you will always be in our hearts. xoxo RIP
Love,
Alex and Anna
Jenna Lindsey
October 15, 2008
Thank you Mr. Lawrence for helping me learn about myself. Writing has become a prominent part of my life, and it is because of you that my poetry gets better. I will never forget the journals we wrote and the poems we created. I appreciate everything you have ever done for me, good or bad, because all of it was a learning process. You have taught me more about myself than I can list. It was the begining of the rest of my life, and that is why I thank you. You will forever be in my heart.
Lauren Barone
October 15, 2008
To the Lawrence Family - my deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Laura Viehmann
October 15, 2008
Dear Ruth,
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. I will hold you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Lawrence
October 15, 2008
For my little brother John, a wee bit of W.H. Auden.
*******You were "my working week and my Sunday rest." Even though I was 8 years older, you were ever the teacher and I was the eager student learning from your brilliance and wit. Although we both taught, you are the real teacher in the family. And although I need to write, you are the real author. If only I had the gift of pen as you did, to write my worries down and set my ideas free. Then, this Sunday, I could rest. But instead, without you, my head can't find the pillow soft enough to comfort. I miss your sarcastic, ironic, brave, beautiful, raw and wonderful self! I miss my teacher, my best editor, my best writer, my best poet, my best film critic, my brother and my friend.
Love,
Kath
Judy Ouellette
October 15, 2008
Dear Ruth and Family:
What I know of John I know mostly from his beloved sister Kathy and from a few interactions with him. He was bright and beautiful.
Kathy could not speak highly enough of John, and my heart breaks for her and her family for I know how much they will miss him.
What I do know is that we lost a son, a brother, a friend, a learner, and a teacher, and although he is no longer in our physical presence, his words, deeds, and intentions are always amongst us.
Chuck Fujita
October 15, 2008
John,
We never got around to a ride around the village. My last email promised no Angrilu. Come to think of it, you were probably the only one at AC who would know what the Angrilu or Tourmalet or Hauticam for that matter, is. I recall your glee when I lent you Bicycling magazine's buyer's guide last spring and the post-it notes you attached to some of the pictures when you returned it. I chuckled at the one attached to the carbon fiber Storck, "Only $12000? I'll take two." I will miss our talks in your room after classes about pro cycling and cyclists we admired, and I will miss you. Farewell.
Lynn Doescher
October 14, 2008
Dear Dr. Ruth & Lawrence Family:
As a past Division Director for the March of Dimes I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Lawrence as well as having met some of the other Lawrence family at our many events. Dr. Ruth was so proud of all of her children and now having read about what a wonderful man John was I am sorry that I did not get a chance to meet him as well. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this sad time in your lives, but it seems John impacted so many in his short time among us I know his legacy will continue forever.
Shu Shum
October 14, 2008
My deepest condolences to Dr. Ruth Lawrence and her family.
Shu Shum and staff, Texas Panhandle Poison Center.
Stephen Murphy
October 14, 2008
My deepest condolences to the Lawrence family. I was a classmate of Johns at Mcquaid and have fond memories of his great personality. It was truly touching to read of how John touched so many people in his life. My prayers are with you.
Ms. Silvia
October 14, 2008
Dear Lawrence Family: I had the honor and privilege of working with John at Prep for Prep. He was a perfect compliment to me, Erin and David. His first summer at Prep - he dove right in and the students loved him - nicknaming him Jlaw. John was missed when he left Prep and he is sorely missed now. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thomas Driscoll
October 14, 2008
Dear Ruth I am so sorry to hear of John's death. Please know of my prayers and support.
Nancy Powers
October 14, 2008
To John's family: I have had the pleasure to cross paths with John's mother, Dr. Ruth Lawrence, and brother Rob through professional connections over the years. I can tell that John was another special member of this wonderful family. It certainly seems that he was taken too soon, that he had more to give. My condolences to you upon his loss. May the many good memories of him serve as a source of comfort during your time of grieving. You are in my prayers.
Frank McLaughlin
October 14, 2008
Dear Lawrence Family - At McQuaid, John was a popular student for the right reasons. He was kind and confident, intelligent and fun-loving. He was in every sense a worthy valedictorian who lived the values of the institution and those of his family. It is apparent that those values never dissipated but grew in strength. Peace be with your family in these difficult times.
Cathy Hoover (from UF College of Medicine)
October 14, 2008
Dr. Rob, I am very sorry for the loss of your brother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Just know I'm thinking about you and Rachel and your safe return.
Desiree Pagan
October 13, 2008
My most sincere condolences to you and your family.
Adrian Rouse
October 13, 2008
Mr. Lawrence was a teacher, an adviser, and a good friend. He was a strong fighter and he is my greatest hero. Without his inspiring knowledge I don't know where I would be today. He has taught us to never give up and to strive for our goals. Everyone will miss you very much, Mr. Lawrence, and I know I will too. You will remain in our hearts forever and we will never forget you. I love you, Mr. Lawrence.
Karla Shepard Rubinger
October 13, 2008
With a mother dedicated to the health and welfare of children worldwide, of course none are more important than her own. And John Charles certainly inherited that gene from his parents. The children he touched are blessed and will continue the Lawrence Legacy of making our world a better place.
Arnold Tanis
October 13, 2008
With condolences from Bud & Maxine Tanis to our dear friend
and colleague, Ruth Lawrence, with the knowledge of the
great sorrow in losing a son.
Maria Lanza
October 13, 2008
Dr. Lawrence, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, may you all find peace. Dr. Lawrence know that your son is in a wonderful place. God Bless.....
Maya Bunik
October 13, 2008
Dr. Lawrence and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy--
Margreete Johnston
October 13, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Diane Jackson Scheble
October 13, 2008
Dearest Mary Alice,
I'm so sad to hear of John's passing. Please know my prayers are with you, your mom and all the Lawrences. I'm thinking of all of you during this very difficult and sad time.
I had many years of laughter and great fun during our childhood years spent over at 902 Landing Rd N. I can see John's big smile as Chopper blasted some meat rice in my direction. :) Who can forget the famous meat rice, or the mud room, or that dining room table with every intellectual book imaginable. Perhaps I should of picked up a few of those books.
It looks like John did. What an incredible resume. I had no idea of his educational achievements, both personally and professionally. Wow!
What an outstanding life filled with a big huge loving family, many friends, colleagues and students. He achieved more that most do in a life time. He will be greatly missed.
Mare, please know that I am here for you despite the many miles.
So much love to you and your family, DJ
david watts
October 13, 2008
i worked closely with john at prep for prep. he was not only a great and effective teacher and administrator, but really stood out as a genuine person who instinctively cared for those around him. i will remember his dry sense of understated humor, his passion, and his creativity in his work and relationships. when i went through a particularly rough time of my life, john did not hesitate to do everything in his power to not only help me, but did not judge me and remained true to our friendship. we were able to joke about our mutual hardships after he learned of his diagnosis, which is indicative of john's wry outlook. the last time i saw john in nyc, we laughed about his trying to preserve his mojo even with a bald head! i also will remember a sports fan and competitor, who was able to post me up in the paint and take a turn around jumper in my face. john and i were colleagues and friends and i will choose to remember his devotion and loyalty. i owe much to "jlaw", as the kids at prep called him, and his ability to reach all types of people is a testament to the power of his unconditional caring. he was truly one of the most genuine people i have met, and i love him for that. my son and i will miss you, john. thank you for everything.
Tom Tonniges
October 13, 2008
Ruth, Jane and I express condolences about John's death. I never had a chance to meet him, but I know that he had to be a great man.
Tom and Jane Tonniges
Eyvonne L.
October 13, 2008
Dr. Lawrence and Family:
I send my deepest sympathy. My prayers and thoughts goes out to you and your family.
Brian Donovan
October 13, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the Lawrence family. John was a terrific friend and great classmate.
Brian W. Donovan, McQ '84
Colleen Herlehy
October 13, 2008
To the entire Lawrence family,
We are truely sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Steven & Colleen Herlehy
stacy lindholm
October 13, 2008
Chopper - know that you and your family are in my thoughts - i'm saddened to know such an incredible person has passed.
love - stacy
Martha Welshofer Roney
October 13, 2008
Joan, Dr. Ruth and family:
My deepest sympathy to you.
May you all, and may John ~ find peace.
God Bless!
Sherri Goodenough
October 13, 2008
Mary, My deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers go out to you and all of your family, in the loss of your very accomplished brother. God Bless you, comfort you and keep you in his grace.
Kama Stark
October 12, 2008
Mr. Lawrence..He was more than just a teacher he was an amazing friend. He has touched so many lifes. He was a strong hearted person who will never ever be forgotten in my family. Even though he had many challenges he did anything he could to help...I am currently sick with multiple things and Mr. Lawrence helped me stay in school as long as possible. He was and still is an insperation to all....We Love you Mr. Lawrence.
Jeanette Schramm
October 12, 2008
I'm glad I had the chance to meet and know you. You were an amazing English teacher, and most importantly, you were an inspiration to me in so many ways; I thank you a thousand times over. I will remember you always, and forever have a place for you in my heart.
Thank you again for being a part of my life, Mr. Lawrence.
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