Obituary of Gary O. Lawson

Gary O. Lawson, age 65, of Lakewood passed away Friday November 27, 2015 at the Buffalo VA Medical Center. Gary was born on December 16, 1949 in Jamestown to Oramon and Barbara Lawson. Gary was a dedicated father who enjoyed kayaking, fishing, hiking, and golfing among other outdoor activities. He worked as a finish carpenter, was a master woodworker, and enjoyed finding and restoring antiques. Gary also served in the Naval Reserve from 1971-1976. His tour of duty in Vietnam was on the USS Buchanan and he received the National Defense Service Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon. Gary is survived by his daughter, Emily Lawson of Lafayette, IN; sister Shelley (Jim) LaForte of Wrightwood, CA; nieces: Dominique (Massimo) D’Angelo of New York, NY, Gabrielle LaForte (Daniel Campos) of Lewisville, TX, and Sicily (Garyadam) LaForte of Long Beach, CA; great niece and nephew, Chiara D’Angelo and Harrison Campos; sister in law, Rosemary (Paul) Stage of Maple Springs, NY; brother in laws, John (Nancy) Nocero and Russell Nocero; nephews, Paul (Jordan) Stage and Mathew Stage of Maple Springs, NY, and Kyle (Amanda) Nocero of Glen Rose Texas; and special companion, Bonnie Strattan. Besides his parents Gary was predeceased by his wife, Joelle Lawson in 1996. A memorial graveside service will be held at Sunset Hill Cemetery in the spring. Memorial donations in Gary's honor may be made directly to the family to help offset medical and funeral expenses. You may send condolences to the family by visiting www.hubertfuneralhome.com Hubert Funeral Home and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.