Obituary of John Lawton

Lawton, J. Stephen (89) On Tuesday, May 8, 2012 Steve Lawton passed peacefully with family by his side at Arnot-Ogden Hospital, Elmira, New York. Born October 24, 1922, he was the son of the late G. Ransom and Madge B. Lawton of Watkins Glen, New York, the brother of the late Elizabeth Lawton Hall, and the husband of the late Jean B. Lawton. He is survived by his son, Jeff Lawton and his daughters Linda Greene (Russ) and Julie Lawton (Jenny Thomson). Additionally, he is survived by several nephews, nieces, and their spouses/partners: Fred Hall, Dale Vetuskey (Jim), Jackie Barton (Wayne), Chris Burnside (Karl Greene), Diane Murdock (Steve), Mike Burnside (Miriam) and many grand-nieces/nephews, second-cousins and their families. Steve was a graduate of Pennsylvania Military College. He served as an Army Medic during World War II until his discharge from Fort Leavenworth on February 14, 1946. He did graduate studies in Fisheries Biology at Cornell University. He was also a local contractor for five years. He then joined the D.E.C. and worked there until his retirement in 1977. Being an avid outdoorsman, Steve received numerous awards in trap and skeet shooting. He especially enjoyed hunting and fishing. Additionally, he loved boating and chopping wood. He was equally happy relaxing in his recliner by the fire. One of his favorite quotes was this: "When you cut your own wood, it warms you twice". A true testament to Dad's character and dedication to his family, friends and colleagues is best summarized by a quote from his D.E.C. supervisor, "You are a gentleman, a credit to the D.E.C. and a friend to your brother officers. You have my respect, my regard and my best wishes". Dad, "Poppa Bear", we will love and miss you for our remaining days! The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Arnot-Ogden Hospital - specifically the staffs of the I.C.U., Fourth floor A, and Southern Tier Hospice. The care and treatment that they provided our father was excellent. We are truly appreciative of the professionalism and kindness that was extended. A private memorial will be observed by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.