Born in Chittenden, Vermont, John grew up in Burlington where he attended the seminary program at St. Michael’s College where his intention was to become a Priest. During the Korean War, he felt a call of duty to his country and enlisted in the US Army National Guard. He honorably served for two years. Upon his return, he met and married Patricia Mary Fitzsimonds. He returned to St. Michaels and graduated with a BA in 1955. He was a Teacher and Basketball Coach in Olmsteadville, NY from 1955-1960. They returned to Burlington, VT where he started a Building Maintenance Company. In 1965, he was the State VP of the Jaycee organization in VT while also working for the State. He was encouraged to enter The University of Texas Masters Program for Special Education in Austin, TX. Upon graduation, he became the State Coordinator for the MHMR at the State School for the Blind. When that opportunity ended, another began in mid-level management of various local and national food chains. He and his wife moved to Kyle, TX in 1990. He became a School Bus Driver for the HCISD system, where he later retired. John & Patricia became faithful members of St. Anthony’s Catholic church where they developed lifelong friendships. John became a member of the Knights of Columbus, and later became a Deacon, thus fulfilling his duty to Family & Faith that he had initially pursued while attending Seminary.
He is proceeded in death by his wife, Patricia and daughter, Karen Kahanek, parents, Dr. A.B. Lawrence and wife Jeanne, Sisters JoAnn and Dodie, Brother Daniel.
He is survived by his brother, Dr. David & Pat Lawrence and many nieces and nephews. His children JoAnn Talley, her husband Lee, Brian his wife Santa, Rosalie & husband Earl, Carl & his wife Veronica, Carol & her husband Oscar. His grandchildren, Tina, Kevin, Nicole Patricia, Lauren, Brandon, Carla, Alexandria, Stephanie & Jacqueline. His great grandchildren, Adam, Christian, Skylar, Katie, Karyn, Jace, Walker, Katie, Teigan and Alyssa – who makes her debut in December.
His family would like to thank the medical staff who has seen to his care and wellbeing. Thank you to Dr. Goman and her staff, Dr’s. Salmon, Patel, Shetty & Alyssa of Kyle and San Marcos, TX.
Please join John’s family in celebrating his life with a time of visitation on Tuesday October 16, 2018 from 4 to 6 pm at Harrell Funeral Home 1715 Kirby in Kyle, Texas. Rosary services will follow at 7:30 at St. Anthony Marie de Claret Catholic Church, 801 Burleson St, Kyle, Texas. Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday 10/17, 2018 @ 10:00 am also at St. Anthony Marie de Claret Catholic Church followed by a reception in the church hall. Please keep John’s family and friends in your prayers as they heal from his loss.
Please visit www.Harrellfuneralhomes.com to share a fond memory, photograph, or condolence with John’s family on his On-line memorial site.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Vincent De Paul or the Religious Education of St. Anthony de Claret Catholic Church
