William Jon "Bill" Lawrence

William Jon "Bill" Lawrence, a proud Colorado native and lifelong adventurer, passed away on November 23, 2025, in Loveland, Colorado. He was 91 years old.

Born on June 28, 1934, in Lasalle, Colorado, Bill grew up with a deep appreciation for the land and people of his home state. He graduated from Nunn High School in 1952 and began building a life defined by hard work, craftsmanship, and curiosity.

Bill's career path reflected his diverse skills and strong work ethic. His first job was as a boilermaker apprentice at Union Pacific in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where he served for two years. He later worked as an operator on Richard Barns' farm before retiring from Woodward Governor. Never one to sit still for long, Bill also owned and drove a Peterbilt semi-truck for several years-an experience that likely fueled his passion for travel.

Indeed, Bill had a remarkable sense of adventure. He visited all 50 states during his lifetime, capturing memories through the lens of his camera. A talented photographer with an eye for detail and beauty, he preserved the world around him in vivid images. Whether behind the wheel or behind the camera, Bill embraced every opportunity to explore. Bill had a deep passion for drag racing and had lots of opportunities to race in the 50's and 60's at the Colorado race tracks taking home multiple wins.

He also had a gift for working with his hands. From building things to restoring show cars, Bill found joy in craftsmanship. His dedication to car restoration earned him numerous trophies over the years-a testament to both his skill and passion. A devoted fan of car racing and the Denver Broncos, he found excitement both under the hood and on the field.

Bill shared many of life's adventures with his best friend of 50 years, Nick Baca. Together they made countless trips to Blackhawk and Las Vegas-journeys filled with laughter and camaraderie that spanned decades. And attended lots of car shows.

Family was always an important part of Bill's life. He is lovingly remembered by his only daughter Shelley Arnstad of Loveland; granddaughters Amy Collard (Keith) of Fisherville, Kentucky; Kristan Bliven (Zach) of Greeley, Colorado; grandson Ryan Arnstad (Sarah) of Loveland; and ten great-grandchildren: Kayden, Ava, Katarina, Walter, and Amelia Collard; Autumn, Jackson, and Willow Bliven; Xena and Ivy Arnstad. He is also survived by his brother Kenneth Lawrence (Louella) of Littleton and sister Nancy Margheim (Gordon) of Eaton.

Bill was preceded in death by his father Roy Billie Lawrence (1964), mother Tillie Edwards (2011), former wife Sylvia Lawrence (2017), whom he married on September 16, 1955 and divorced in 1969; as well as by Patricia Tilger whom he married in 1971 before divorcing a few years later.

A man who lived fully-with grit in his hands and wonder in his heart-Bill leaves behind a legacy built on resilience, creativity, and exploration. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.