Raymond Lawson

Raymond Lawson, 94, of California, passed away on Monday, December 20, 2010, at California Care Center. He was born on November 24, 1916, in California, the son of Sidney Elmer and Catherine (Peters) Lawson, both of whom preceded him in death. He was married on May 20, 1942, to Mary Stark, who preceded him in death on December 16, 1997. He was a 1935 graduate of California High School, and a member of First Christian Church in California. He was co-owner with his brother Norman of Lawson Locker and Grocery Service. Raymond served in the United States Army in World War II, serving mostly in Italy. He was a member of VFW Post #4345, and was a past president of the California Country Club. Survivors include two sons, Mike Lawson and wife Maggie of California, and Steve Lawson of Normal, Ill.; one daughter-in-law, Lana Lawson of California; one brother, Norman Lawson of California; one sister, Virginia Gerhart of Spring, Texas; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by one son, Jim Lawson; and one sister, Ruth Zey. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 23, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. at Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services in California, with Rev. Chuck Butcher officiating. Burial will be in California City Cemetery. Visitation will be held today, Wednesday, December 22, 2010, from 5:00ñ7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the First Christian Church of California, 107 N. Oak, California, MO 65018. Arrangements are under the direction of Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, California, Mo.