Robert Paul Lawrence

Robert Paul Lawrence, 69, of Hastings, MN, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024. Born on February 27, 1955, in Richland Center, WI, he was the son of Richard and Katherine (Haas) Lawrence. Raised in Hastings, Robert was a proud 1973 graduate of Hastings High School, where he enjoyed woodworking, shop classes, and playing football.

A true outdoorsman, Robert's passion for hunting, fishing, and trapping was well-known amongst his family and friends. He never met a stranger. Every person, to him, was just a friend he hadn’t met yet. His unmistakable presence, marked by a huge personality and a generous spirit, touched everyone around him. Throughout his life, Robert remained a loyal fan of all Minnesota sports.

Robert dedicated his entire career to Smead Manufacturing, where he was a tool and die maker from 1975 until his retirement when they closed the doors of their plant in Hastings.

He is survived by his son, Patrick Lawrence (Lynn Zurnieden); his granddaughter, Dulcie Lawrence; his sisters, Veronica Davis and Diane Lawrence; cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Katherine; his brother, Richard; his sister, Rita; his grandson, Colin; and his niece, Jennifer.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Robert will be held at 3:30 PM on Monday, September 23, 2024, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033. Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation starting at 3:00 PM, prior to the service, and again from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Burial will take place at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery, 2035 15th St. W, Hastings, MN 55033 at a later date.

Starkson Family Life Celebration is handling the arrangements.