Wallace Edward "Wally" Lawson

Wallace "Wally" Edward Lawson, 73, of Centralia, Washington, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17, 2025, with his wife and daughter by his side, after a courageous three-and-a-half-year battle with lung cancer.
Wally was born on October 27, 1951, in Minnesota to Dorothy and Glenn Lawson. He was the second oldest of ten siblings: JoAnn, Allen (Carol), Barb, Debbie (Chuck), Julie, Ted (Lisa),Peter (Jill), Patti, and Jeff (Valerie).
After graduating high school, Wally moved to Washington and began working in the industrial electric industry. He eventually became an Electric Motor Specialist and Shop Manager at L&L Machinery Company, where he dedicated 38 years of his career. Wally truly loved his work-so much so that he continually postponed retirement, simply because he wasn't ready to step away.He cherished his coworkers, Janine "The Chief," Tracy, and Jason, along with countless customers who became lifelong friends. Even in his final days, he was still sharing "motor data"for "the guys." He was deeply disappointed in May, when his illness prevented him from driving to the shop each day.
In September 1986, Wally married his soulmate, Renée. Their marriage of nearly four decades was one of deep friendship, laughter, and unwavering devotion. He never missed a chance to show his love in small but meaningful ways-whether by keeping her gas tank full or tackling projects from the "honey-do list." Their special place was Lake Chelan, where they enjoyed strolling through town, playing penny slots at the casino, and simply being together. Through Wally's illness, they remained steadfast partners, ensuring his final wishes were honored with dignity and love.
Wally was proud of his son, Joshua Lawson (Theresa), and his grandchildren, Jordan (Jade),Logan, and Alizandra, who live in Jefferson, Iowa. He treasured their FaceTime calls and photos,and it meant the world to him that Josh could be with him in his final days.
His pride and joy was his daughter, Tabitha (Lawson) Burkhardt, and son-in-law Kyle. Of all his many roles, being "Tabitha's Dad" was one he cherished most. Their bond was unbreakable, and Tabitha will forever cherish being her daddy's girl. Some of their fondest times were shared on the ball field. Wally coached her from T-ball through high school fastpitch, and later the two coached youth girls' teams side by side. He also loved sharing his knack for fixing things with Kyle, whether at his own home or theirs.
When Wally wasn't working, he could almost always be found at the ballfields or cheering on Centralia sports. He volunteered as a youth fastpitch coach, kept score for the high school fastpitch team, and even sold 50/50 tickets at football games while Tabitha cheered. Known and loved throughout the Centralia community, Wally rarely made a quick stop at Safeway without running into friends, former players, or familiar faces who wanted to catch up.
A devoted Seahawks fan, Wally also rooted for the Minnesota Vikings. He loved tinkering in the shop he designed and built, where every tool had its proper place. He took great joy in restoring his 1951 Chevy Panel truck, a project that also frequently tested his patience.
Wally is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Allen, whom he missed deeply. We Take comfort in knowing they are together again, listening to The Beatles or Bon Jovi. In his final months, he especially treasured frequent check-ins from his sisters in Minnesota.
He is survived by his loving wife Renée; his son Joshua (Theresa); his daughter Tabitha (Kyle);his grandchildren Jordan (Jade), Logan, and Alizandra; his siblings; brothers-in-law Ron(Connie) and Robin (Kim) Ronnell; Aunt Paula and Uncle Robin Mugglestone; and many nieces,nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who each held a special place in "Uncle Wally's"heart. He was also blessed with countless friends who called, texted, and visited during his illness; gestures that meant so much to him and his family.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Providence Regional Cancer Center-Dr. Byrd and team; Radiant Care-Dr. Werner, Dr. Allen, Megan, and Mark; and especially Melissa and the staff at Lander House, whose compassion and care in Wally's final days were more than we could have ever asked for.
At Wally's request, a small private memorial service will be held at the time of inurnment.