John L. Lawson

John L. Lawson, 62, of Prescott Valley, Arizona, passed away on March 10, 2013, after an 11-year battle with colon cancer. He was born on July 7, 1950, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Jack and Sarah (Boyer) Lawson. John grew up in Boardman, Ohio. He graduated from Boardman High School in 1968. Upon graduation he enlisted in the US Army and proudly served our country for three years. He served in the Viet Nam War with the 95th Engr Co and was the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1971, achieving the rank of SP5. John began work for the Youngstown Vindicator in 1971 as a printing pressman where he worked for two years. He then moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, and worked for American Can Book Walters in the same occupation for two years. After moving to San Diego, California, he worked for Finance America Corporation in the finance department and was transferred to Tempe, Arizona, in 1978. In 1979, John began employment as a branch manager for Sentry Financial in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he worked for ten years. His colleagues affectionately called him Lender Lawson. In 1988, John began his employment with AAA of Arizona and became the VP of Insurance. He retired in 2009 after 20 years. John also attended Phoenix University and completed various managerial courses during his tenure with AAA. On April 10, 1976, John married Rebecca Van Damme. They were happily married for 36 years. John was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Prescott Valley. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 6 and a member of the Optimist Club in California. He enjoyed playing golf, riding his Harley, off-roading in the FJ, watching football, and learning about history. He was an honored member of the Safeco Property Casualty President’s Council in recognition of his professional insurance leadership. John was preceded in death by his father, Jack Lawson, and his stepmother, Eileen Lawson. John is survived by his spouse Rebecca; his mother Sarah (John) Leavens of Ohio; his sons John of Youngstown, Ohio, and James Bryan of Prescott Valley, Arizona; his sisters Corliss (Earl) Wright of Texas, Toni Juergensen and Tammy (Joe) Hray of Ohio; his nephew, Rick (Shari) Harvey of Arizona and many other relatives. John also leaves behind Babs, his beloved dog. The family wishes to thank the Trinity Lutheran family as well as friends and relatives who consistently provided John with love and encouragement during his fight against this disease.