Russell James Lawrence's Obituary
Big Rapids - Russell James Lawrence, 68, of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 11, 2015. He was born August 6, 1946, in Weidman, the son of James and Una (Smith) Lawrence, and graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1964. He then went through Army basic training, and served 6 years in the Michigan National Guard. For a short time, Russ worked for Wolverine World Wide, and then began his 33 year career with the U.S. Postal Service. He started as a mail clerk behind the counter at the Big Rapids Post Office, and later became a carrier in the city. Russ was well known as "favorite mailman", and he walked eleven miles on his daily route. Upon his retirement, the Pioneer did a special front page story about Russ entitled "Saying Goodbye". Russ was a lifetime member of the Big Rapids Aerie Eagles #2535. He was a big sports fan, and among his favorite teams were the New York Yankees and University of Michigan Football. Russ also coached his niece's softball team, and taught her how to pitch. He is survived by one sister Kathleen (Phillip) Coon of Big Rapids; nieces and nephews Michael (Dawn Schroeder) Coon, Sharon (Greg) Dagon, Nancy (Jim) Gigowski, and Jim Lawrence; 4 great-nieces and 6 great-great-nieces ; and his special friend Joyce Freiberg. Russ was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Everett Lawrence. Funeral services for Russ will be 2:30 p.m. Sunday, February 15, 2015, at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, with Pastor Zachary Nyhuis officiating. Spring burial will be in the Pine Plains Cemetery. His family will greet friends at the funeral home from 3-5 p.m. on Saturday, and prior to services on Sunday. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Animal Rescue Coalition of Mecosta County, the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, or the American Diabetes Association Grand Rapids Chapter, with envelopes available at the funeral home.
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