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Andrew Lawrence Obituary
Andrew Lawrence, 40, of Benton Harbor passed away on Dec. 5, 2022, at his home.
A celebration of life service will be at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 15, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Service, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph with pastor Michael Roth officiating. Friends may visit from 5-6 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to Gift of Life Foundation, 3861 Research Park Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. Those wishing to share a memory of Andrew online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Andrew was born on April 27, 1982, in St. Joseph to Robert and Joyce (Fortenbacher) Lawrence.
He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 2000. He received his bachelor's degree from Western Michigan University and then his master's from The Grand Canyon University of Phoenix in Colorado. Andrew was a history teacher for Countryside Academy. He was an avid runner who competed in many marathons, half marathons and many other races. He also enjoyed music.
Andrew is survived by his parents: Robert and Joyce Lawrence; sister, Katie (Josh) Smith; brother Robert "Rob" Lawrence Jr. (fiancée, Melissa Moore); niece, Langlei Smith; nephew, Carter Smith; aunt, Jane (Warren) Hughes; and uncles: Kenneth Fortenbacher and William (Lee) Lawrence.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Andrew Lawrence
stephanie s hoops
September 6, 2024
He was a kind and welcome teacher here. It's so difficult to find teachers that are willing to teach in less advantaged communities like ours. We appreciated him greatly while he was with us.
Vicky
September 19, 2023
It´s been about a month since I´ve heard our sunshine, Mr. Lawrence has gone ahead..& am very saddened & in disbelief. As a parent of WRUSD Immersion students, we´ve had to adjust to changes of cutbacks to mid-sch level; Mr. Lawrence made such a difference with his enthusiastic presence at WRUSD Mid-Sch, during our Immersion adolescent´s dramatic adjustments in school location transfer. We didn´t know Mr. Lawrence until at the mid-sch level but now he´ll always be missed dearly...totally feel his empty spot in Ft. Defiance more than ever! Sincerest condolences to the family of super cool Andrew :´/
Dinah Todacheeny
January 17, 2023
Andrew will be missed by many. He was an exceptional person who cared for students, staff, and community. Our special education staff appreciated his support on a daily basis.
Pablo
December 23, 2022
he was my vice principal in middle school in 4th-6th grade, i am now a senior graduating this year
Michelle Pham
December 22, 2022
My deepest condolences to the Lawrence family.
I don't know where to begin. I feel like it was just yesterday when you spoke at my 8th grade promotion in 2017. Thank you Mr. Lawrence for how much you have positively impacted my life and for the words of encouragement you have given me. I will always remember the positive energy you constantly displayed in the middle school hallways by shaking our hands and greeting us with a big smile. It was an honor to meet such a bright and collected person such as yourself. Thank you for bringing joy and comfort to the school community.
V. Tsosie
December 17, 2022
To Andrew Lawrence´s family. We were truly blessed to have your son become an impactful member of our community within the boundary of the Navajo Nation in AZ. He left an indelible mark within our community & we send our deepest condolences. Thank you for bringing him into this world so he could be impactful to our Navajo world too. Ah´ héé há Mr. Andrew Lawrence, may you rest in peace in the heavens.
Evelyn Johnson
December 15, 2022
My deepest condolences to the Lawerence family.
Andrew, my Yaazh (my son) I will always remember your first day with Tsehootsooi middle school. The late Nora Halona and I put you under our arms to assist and guide you. He was always grateful and within a week you began to call us, Shima ( my mother). We told you the first rule, do not become friends with your student or they will run all over you.
As the years went by he became very passionate in serving our Dine students. Students loved him. He was always calm while talking to overactive students.
As a colleague, teacher mentor, and assistant principal, you listened, took action and always found ways to help classroom teachers. Your dedication, passion and leadership had a great impact on our school.
Your right and left side walking down the hallway is still in effect.
As you left our school district, students and staff truly missed you. It was very difficult not seeing you in the building. I had adjust my time to enter the building from 6:00am to 6:45am now. I also miss your jokes. I believe you were the only administrator who understood my sarcasm and we would laugh unstoppable after work.
Thank you for all you did for our students and community. I truly miss you.
Evelyn Johnson
Tony c Hughes
December 15, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Philomena Slinkey
December 14, 2022
Hello, I would like to send my condolences to the family of Mr. Larwence...he was an awesome teacher at Tse hoo tsooh middle school and also a great summer school teacher...he always helped the students out when they needed it and also always encouraged us students to keep going and never give up...Rest in peace Mr.Larwence fly high
Mary Phillips
December 12, 2022
I am Very Sorry for your loss. I was a colleague of your extraordinary son. He was an exceptional teacher, taking naturally to AVID strategies and using socratic seminars to teach critical thinking. I worked with Andrew at WRUSD and on achieving NBCT. We are greatly saddened by this loss.
Kyle Dennison
December 12, 2022
Andrew Lawrence,
I came to your class to learn how to teach. I want to thank your for being my student teacher and showing me how to organize your students and classroom. I really hate seeing this because I know how powerful of a teacher you where. I hoped we could get together somewhere but maybe in the afterlife. It hurts to see this because your where a true inspiration to my teaching because I used your structure. I just want to tell you that I love you man... and I will never forget you. Thank you for showing me how to teach. Navajo students will always remember you from your history class.
Tony c Hughes
December 11, 2022
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Juli (Apthorpe) Denike
December 9, 2022
Oh Andrew, my heart broke to hear of your passing. You were one of the first people I met when I moved to Michigan. You were always so kind, funny, and generous. Your laugh and smile were infectious. I remember you concentrating so hard in orchestra. You´ve touched so many peoples lives, I´m so proud to have known you. Condolences to all your friends and family, you will live on in our hearts and memories.
Michelle (Barber) Burgess
December 9, 2022
Andrew, you wonderful person. Even though we haven´t seen each other in many years, you were such an important part of my life. Not many people get to have class together for so many years. I was so proud of you when I learned you had become a teacher. Now it is your turn to pack the rosin. Hug my brother for me. :-)
Shoshanah Deschine
December 9, 2022
Mr. Lawrence,
You were an amazing coach and teacher. You were always so friendly and cared so much about the people around you. Thank you for the support you always sent my way; your little actions made big impacts.
I remember a time that a meet went long, but I forgot my jacket and you lent me yours without question. It was long ago but I still remember all the effort you put in for your students.
My condolences to the Lawrence family, may you find peace and comfort.
Marty Bowman
December 9, 2022
My deepest condolences to the Lawrence family with bleesing and strong prayers. I got to know Andrew by his passion, careless and dedication in working with the students. He was a very kind and understanding gentleman and he encouraged me to keep fighting for students, teachers and employees of WRUSD when I was on the school board and I always remember our talks and he mentioned to me the he change his voting status, so he told me, I voted for you Mr Bowman. I told him I'll try my best. Sir, you will be truly miss and your great sense of humor and smile. Going to miss you my Dine/Anglo brother.
Darlene Yazzie
December 9, 2022
His famous quote was "I´m not mad at you but disappointed" per my son - and always giving encouragement not to give up always try your best - you can do it - thank you for always looking after our students - going to miss your kindness
Nizhoni Bia
December 9, 2022
I'm sorry for your loss. Mr. Lawrence, you were a amazing coach that everyone at TMS could have because you push us ( IN A GOOD WAY ) towards our dreams. I hope you are in a better place.
Lakota Jordan
December 9, 2022
Mr. Lawrence was a wonderful teacher and coach, I always remember him pushing me to do my best. He made classes fun and interesting, I will never forget his optimism and just in general, his wonderfulness.
My condolences to his family, he will be missed dearly.
Genevieve Charley
December 9, 2022
My condolences to the Lawrence family, Mr. Andrew Lawrence will always be remembered for his respect for the students, staff, and his commitment to education at WRUSD. Thank you for your leadership and the exemplary educator you contributed to our ESS Students of WRUSD Mr. Lawrence, you will be truly missed.
Merlinda James
December 9, 2022
Sending prayers and strength to Mr. Lawrence's family. You have made a great impact in all my children's lives as a cross country coach, teacher, administrator at Tse ho tsoi middle school, Always staying Hello, Good morning to every student entering school and Always encouraging them to do better and pushing them to improve. You never forgot about them as they graduated and reached out to you for advice about college you were there for them, Thank you, it was a honor to know a awesome, kind, caring person like you. Rest in peace Mr Lawrence.
Sheena Yuhas
December 9, 2022
I worked with Andrew at TMS in Fort Defiance,AZ a long time ago. He was an amazing teacher who cared about all students, regardless of whether or not he had them in his class. He was a great person to work with! I´m so sorry for your loss.
C Deschinny
December 9, 2022
What a wonderful running coach for my son who he led to "State." We certainly admired his commitment and kind words when needed. Best coach ever!
Kristen Sanderson
December 9, 2022
Mr. Lawrence,
Where do I even begin? It seems just like yesterday when you introduced yourself to little 10 year old self me. From that first introduction, you have played a strong role in who I am today. You and my family had such a strong bond because you both pushed me to be better both academically and athletically. You cheered me on through high school and always checked in. It was hard to hear that you were leaving Window Rock, but always knew you´d make such amazing impressions on other students. I am sadden at the news of your passing, but you will always have one of the biggest influences on me that I could never repay. Thank you for being such an amazing mentor, teacher, and coach to me for the last 12 years.
Chelsea W.
December 9, 2022
Sending heartfelt condolences and prayers to Mr. Lawrence´s family. He was truly one of the greatest teachers I´ve come to know. He was my middle school history teacher, and my little sisters track and field coach when she was in middle school. He went above and beyond for his students at WRUSD, and he would remember every single one of them. Thank you very much for all that you did Mr. Lawrence, you´ve made an impact on the community. You´ll be truly missed
Melanie, Colan & Cauy S
December 8, 2022
I always question why the Good ones always go before Us .... My household tonight was full of broken hearts ... especially for My young guy Colan. Mr Lawrence was truly one of a kind ..... had a heart of Gold and went over & beyond for his Students and treated each and every one of them as His own. There's always that one special person that will come into your Life and touch your heart .... and Lawrence was just that person here in our community of WR School District. He was always so proud and full of energy as He cheered on both my Boys ... he always had the most welcoming Smile and stigma that could light up the room! Thank you Mr Lawrence for having Faith in My Sonny and being his biggest inspiration to succeed!!! Thank you for giving our community your Love and encouragement... You are truly missed .... May Heaven await your kind soul...Until we meet again... We Love you Forever & ever
ColanCauyMelanie
Jaisyn Spencer
December 8, 2022
My condolences to Mr Lawrence's family. I admired him as a teacher and a mentor, he was the best person that would go the extra mile and guide people back onto the right path. I will never forget how inspiring he was and how caring he could be. I am glad to have been able to call him my friend and mentor.
Venessa James
December 8, 2022
I would just like to share my condolences to everyone who knew Andrew Lawrence. As I knew him as Coach Lawrence, during my middle school years, he always supported us athletes and students from Window Rock Arizona to our highest potentials. He was the best cross country coach we had and always pushed us to be the best. He supported us so much! not only in athletics but also academics. He was my biggest supporter growing up! He was a very good coach, and teacher. He made a huge impact in my life that was so positive that made me the person I am today, and I will always remember him for the great person he was.
Sheldon Yazzie
December 8, 2022
Im remembering his `traditional´ introduction, and how he respected the dine´ nation as a culture... he was so humble, caring... a true brother, family. Im proud to have called him my friend.
Jonathan J Pablo
December 8, 2022
Ya´at´eeh Lawrence Family. Blessings and comfort to you all. My brother Andrew. You are a wonderful brother. Having to have know you for many years and to have coached along side you, worked along side you and those stories that we shared of our lives and experiences are like yesterday that we laughed, cried and understood each other. You have made a great impact here in our community of fort defiance az. Our children are saddened yet greatful to have known you and have been a great example of a coach, leader and mentor to the young minds and spirits. Thank you for all that you have left with us. To the Lawrence family, thank you for sharing Andrew with us to know him as our a friend, colleague, coach, and a brother. You have been missed since your departure here in the good ol´ Dine´ Nation. Love you brother. /jp
Eric L Cooke
December 8, 2022
Wow where to start. I am still in shock. I lost a good friend. I am sending my condolences to your family Mr. Andrew Lawrence. When I started with WRUSD #8 Here on the Navajo Nation. I got along with you very well. God called u home and I understand. You will always be in my heart Mr. Andrew Lawrence. Rest in peace Sir. Re: I was the school security officer.
Modrian Chase
December 8, 2022
send my biggest condolences mr Lawrence I admire him as a teacher, coach and as a person he had the most beautiful mind and great passion on running and teaching young students will miss the late night bus drives back after a meet nor the smiles and laughs you out on every student faces my family considers you family and but Lawrence you´ll be deeply missed by myself and my family and many others....
Love Mo !
Merlinda James
December 8, 2022
Mr. Lawrence will surely be missed. He made a positive impact in all my children's lives as a cross country coach, teacher, and administrator at Window Rock. He was always very helpful , positive and encouraging to the students as he greeted every student coming to school every morning for school smiling and laughing with them. This news has hurt us he will be greatly missed. We send our prayers and strength to his family. Lord Thank you for blessing me and family to have met this Wonderful person.
Samantha Manuelito
December 8, 2022
Mr Laurence was an inspirational teacher to my son. He got my son to think of real life issues and unique ways to solve them. Thank you, Mr Laurence. Our sincere condolences to your family.
Nicholas B.
December 8, 2022
I'm at a loss for words writing this. I met him when he moved to Window Rock, AZ in 2008. I remember he moved in beside us and was our neighbor. You became a friend and a brother to me. I will always remember watching college football together. My parents also adopted you as their own and called you "son". You became Uncle Drew to my boys. We will always remember you. You were a very active individual who cared a lot for others. Always had a smile on your face. You always brightened the room with your smile and you had a great sense of humor. Rest in Paradise, my Irish brother. You will be missed dearly and forever in our hearts.
Lena jaques
December 8, 2022
Upon hearing of Mr. Andrew Lawerence´s passing we were quite grieved. He will always be remembered as my children´s cross country and track coach, and teacher in Window Rock, AZ. He was always kind in his demeanor when communicating with myself and other parents, and was a caring coach and teacher.
Coming to Navajo Nation - a culturally unique community, can be be discombobulating and disconcerting at first, but I feel he found his footing and gave his best for the benefit of our youth.
My family will surely miss his presence here on earth, and may his family find comfort during their grief and loss. God bless.
With Love,
The Jaqueses of Window Rock, AZ
Delores Noble
December 8, 2022
My sincere condolences to the family. I worked with Andrew at the Window Rock Unified School District. He was a kind and helpful colleague.
jefferyson benally
December 8, 2022
He was my middle school principle, I was a bad student but he always changed my mind about things and changed my life and gave me the motivation to go to school everyday when even times were tough, ill miss u Andrew Lawrence
Regina
December 8, 2022
Thank I for all the discipline u instilled in my son lance when he ran XC for u at Tse ho Tso middle school on the Navajo reservation. Condolences to the family.
Roberta Tayah
December 8, 2022
Mr. Lawrence, you will be missed. I recall when you first arrived on the Navajo Nation and began you journey as a teacher with WRUDS. You having always been a caring, genuine, kind person. Years later, you left as a successful administrator. You have touched so many hearts. I will never forget visiting you in Michigan and Silver Beach will remain special. Rest In Peace, my friend. Ms. Tayah
Rochelle Begaye (Friend, Athlete, Student)
December 8, 2022
Mr. Lawrence was my favorite Cross Country coach. I met him my sixth grade year and stayed in the sport until 8th grade. He was a big supporter in the sport, and believed we all had so much potential. He would always make sure we were pushing ourselves at each practice and ran beside us. At meets he would be yelling and cheering us on. My favorite memory is when we both discovered our favorite song at the moment was Handlebars by Flobots.
My condolences to the family.
Raeanna Btock
December 8, 2022
Mr. Lawrence was an incredible leader., and friend. He was an Assistant Principal at Tsehootsooi Middle School (Navajo Nation) where we worked together. I´m sadden by this information. My condolences to Mr. Lawrence´s loved ones. Y´all are in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Raeanna Brock
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