DADE CITY, FLA. — Michael Clifford Lawson, 69, passed away March 17, 2013, with his loving wife and friend at his side. He fought a long, courageous battle with mesothelioma. He was born in New York City on Dec. 31, 1943, the oldest son of Francis and Margaret Chaab Lawson. Michael spent part of his childhood in Port Henry, N.Y., before moving to Plattsburgh, where he was raised. He married and moved to Peru, N.Y., where he resided for 32 years before moving to Florida in 2004.
Mike graduated from Plattsburgh High School in 1962 with a regent's diploma in Latin. His favorite Latin phrase was "Cognito Ergo Sum." He went on to Plattsburgh State and earned his bachelor's degree in social sciences in 1966 and his master's degree in 1970, also in social sciences. He also earned a CASA certificate in administration and supervision. He worked most of his educational career of 31 years at AuSable Valley Central School, as a teacher and administrator. After retirement, he substituted at CV-Tech for seven years.
Mike enjoyed bowling, golf and watching football; especially the N.Y. Giants. He was a die-hard Giants fan! He also enjoyed playing blackjack at various casinos and was an avid pinochle player with the saying, "I didn't come here to lose!" After moving to Florida, Mike and his wife Susan became "snowbirds" by returning to Plattsburgh for three months each summer, renting a cabin on the beautiful Lake Champlain.
Mike is predeceased by his parents, Frank and Peg Lawson; brother, Douglas Lawson; in-law, Chuck (Peg) Carr; best friend, Lewis Turner; and his faithful Boston Terrier, Lucy May. He is survived by his loving wife, Susan; son, Robert "RJ" (Pamela) Lawson; granddaughter, Erin Brunell; sister, Patrice (George) Harris of Miami, Fla.; stepmother, Gail Lawson, of Richmond, Va., and their daughter and their son-in-law; seven sisters-in-law and their spouses; and many nieces and nephews. Mike is also survived by his best friends, Linda Turner, Ron (Gay) Mantagna, Tom (Rita) Gibbons, Richard (Jo-Anne) Mahar, Richard (Connie) Brogowski, Carole McGivney, Jim Goddeau, Bill (Tanny) Ladue, Diego (Tracy) Grinberg-Funes; and his faithful Boston Terrier, Dudley II.
At Mike's request, there will be no calling hours or funeral services; burial will be at the convenience of the family. There will be a Celebration of Life in Plattsburgh this summer; the date will be announced at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to HPH Hospice. www.HPH-hospice.org or Donation Department, 12107 Majestic Blvd., Hudson, FL 34667
