Lawrence "Skinny" Gawel

In Loving Memory of Lawrence "Skinny" Gawel

Lawrence "Skinny" Gawel passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, at the age of 76. Beloved husband of Catherine for 51 wonderful years, their marriage was a testament to devotion, partnership, and enduring love.

He was the proud father of Tony (Karina) Nader, Candy (Todd) Kolassa, and Jackie (Scott) Wallace; cherished grandfather of Maddie Kolassa, Sarah (Ken) Esquible, Hailey Nader, Carly Kolassa, Abby Wallace, Zach Wallace, Maya Nader, and A.J. Nader; and delighted great-grandfather of Daniel and McKenna. Skinny was the loving brother of Ken "PeeWee" (Julie) Gawel and the late Ron "Cow" Gawel, and brother-in-law of Simon (Val) Nader and William Nader. He was dearly loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends-each of whom felt his warm heart and easy kindness.

Born and raised in the Detroit and Hamtramck area, Skinny remained deeply connected to his roots throughout his life. He dedicated over 30 years to Chrysler at the Sterling Stamping Plant, retiring as a respected Technical Trainer. He was a proud, longtime member of the Knights of Columbus Cardinal Mercier Council and the VFW in Hamtramck, where he built lifelong friendships and gave generously of his time.

Skinny was an avid sports fan-especially when it came to football-and spent many years as a baseball umpire, a role he genuinely enjoyed. He also loved the excitement of casinos and traveling to Las Vegas. In true Skinny fashion, he even created his own guide, "What to Do in Vegas," which he enthusiastically shared with family and friends.

Known for his kindness, sweetness, and unmistakable sense of humor, Skinny had a way of making people smile-often with a quick one-liner or one of his classic dad jokes. He never arrived without candy to share and a lighthearted spirit that made him so easy to love. Above all, he was immensely proud of his family. There was no greater joy for him than supporting his grandchildren, and he rarely missed one of their games or events.

Skinny's gentle presence, love for life, and unwavering devotion to family will be forever cherished.

Visitation Wednesday, November 26, 2025 from 3:00pm to 8:00pm and Friday, November 28, 2025 from 3:00pm to 8:00pm with a Rosary Service at 7:00pm at Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home, 13650 E. Fifteen Mile, Sterling Heights, MI.

Funeral Mass Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 11:00am with Instate at 10:30am at St. Sharbel Church, 43888 Hayes, Clinton Township, MI.

May his memory be eternal.