Robert Joe Lawson

Robert Joe Lawson, age 61, passed away June 6, 2012 in Lynden, WA. He was born September 9, 1950, in Seattle, WA, son of Robert C. Lawson and Winifred “Rocky” Lawson Rush, and was raised in Carnation, WA. Rob attended Western Washington University (WWU) for both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He worked as a professor at WWU in the Department of Human Services and Rehabilitation. Rob was a dedicated father to his son Rhys and stepchildren Ariel and Kaleb. An avid gardener, fixer-of-things, sports enthusiast, naturalist, inhabitant of unique dwellings, vibrant individual, and traveler, he especially enjoyed trips to Ireland and the Southwest US. His sense of humor and charismatic personality touched many people, and he will be dearly missed. Rob is survived by his son Rhys and daughter-in-law Brooke; grandchildren Jack and Anna; brothers Tom and John; stepchildren Ariel (Starbuck) and Kaleb (Coleman); substantial friend Rochelle Coleman; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins; a loving step-family; and many, many lifelong friends. An open house celebration of Rob’s life will take place on Monday, July 2, at the Sno-Valley Sr. Center in Carnation, from 5-8 p.m. Please bring your favorite stories & photos to share. Remembrances may be made to the Western Washington University Foundation, Human Services Scholarship 220265 IMO Rob Lawson.