Lawrence Allyn Bartlett

Lawrence Allyn Bartlett, 80, died Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025. Lawrence was born in Marion, IA to Clark and Marie Bartlett on July 13, 1945. He was the youngest of four brothers. Lawrence passed on August 21, 2025. Lawrence served in the Army. Upon returning to the states, Lawrence attended the University of Iowa receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Lawrence truly was a renaissance man. He had a passion for places, classic/custom autos, and especially trains. He owned and solely operated American Sign Arts for 20+ years, and went on to work for UIHC as a sign painter. He was very active in and believed strongly in his union. Over the years Lawrence made many connections and long-lasting friendships. He was an artist, and could create masterpieces in any medium, most notably custom sign, mural, and automobile detail and pinstriping work. He was an inventor and problem solver, rarely coming across anything he could not improve or fix. On July 23, 1980 he married Teresa Thompson. They had three children, Gunnar, Ira (Katie), and Naomi. He was a grandfather to Madison, Hunter, Bentley, Theda, Griffin, and Elora. He truly adored all of his granddaughters. Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents Clark and Marie; and his brothers Kenneth, Gordon, and Roger. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family whom he always held close to his heart. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.