Lawrence Mason

Lawrence William Mason, of Grandview, Manitoba, passed away on Friday, May 10th, 2019, at the age of 72 years. 
Lawrence, fondly remembered by family and friends as “Yogi”, was born in Grandview on July 24th, 1946 - the third son of parents George and Margaret Mason (Lightfoot). Lawrence enjoyed life on the family farm, sharing many adventures (and occasionally some mischief) with his brothers and sisters, Dwayne, Eric, Roy, Betty and Gail. Lawrence attended Mountain Gap School and often reflected on special memories with teacher, Mr. Ed Arndt. Following school, Lawrence worked a number of jobs in the area before joining the Department of Highways until receiving his “golden shovel” upon retirement. Lawrence loved the farm life, working the land and fishing and hunting with friends. 
On December 14, 1974, Lawrence married Lillian Lobert, and together they raised their family, son Darrin Lawrence and daughter Tammy Lee Lillian. Time with family and friends was very important and Lawrence and Lil’s house was always a favourite gathering place. Whether it be a game of cards, the many turkey shoots or a music jam session, everyone was welcome and always treated like family. Music was central in Lawrence’s life and many fond memories involved playing with his brother, father and friends. Lawrence loved his community and was quick to lend a hand where needed. Whether it was helping the neighbours around the farm or volunteering to work at community events, Lawrence could be counted on to get the job done. Lawrence was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #14 and a 20+ year veteran of the Grandview Fire Department.  
Lawrence and Lil’s family grew to include Darrin’s wife Lana Cowling and Tammy’s husband Keith Morrison. The arrival of grandchildren, Jaydan George and Hayley Doris, meant that “Yogi” became “Papa” - one of his proudest titles. Papa looked forward to their visits and was known to be a softy when it came to whatever the kids wanted. Lawrence’s love for his family was often shown through his concern - always making sure “you called when you got home” or double-checking that the vehicles were in good repair. 
Lawrence is survived by his beloved wife Lillian; children Darrin Mason (Lana Cowling-Mason), Tammy Mason (Keith Morrisson); grandchildren Jaydan and Hayley; brothers Dwayne Mason (Irene), Eric Mason; sisters Betty Mason (Jerry Swan); Gail Horatchka (Dave); brothers-in-law Robert Lobert (Arla), Willie Lobert, Geroge Lobert, Calvin Lobert (Marg); sisters-in-law Diane Lungal (Cliff); Shirley Fingas (Bob), and Marilyn Brasseur. Numerous nephews and nieces will carry fond memories of Uncle Lawrence. Lawrence is predeceased by his parents George and Margaret Mason; parents-in-law Siegfried and Caroline Lobert; brother Roy Mason; brother-in-law Mervin Lobert.
A celebration of Lawrence’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 16th, 2019 at the Kinsmen Community Hall in Grandview, with interment to follow at Grandview Memorial Gardens. Friends who so desire may make a donation in Lawrence’s memory to Grandview District Hospital Palliative Care Unit, Box 399, Grandview, MB, R0L 0Y0.
The family has been surrounded by the love and support that only a small community can provide. Thank you to the many people who have stopped by, dropped off food and shared a story. A special thank you to the staff at Grandview Hospital who made the difficult days just a little bit easier. We are so grateful to you all.  
 
Funeral Service was held on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 2:00 pm from Grandview Kinsmen Community Center in Grandview, MB with Rev. Karen Kuzek officiating.  Interment followed in Grandview Memorial Gardens & District Cemetery in Grandview, MB.  Pallbearers were Richard Lobert, Wayne Manweiller, Lyle Fisher, Robert Fingas, Arthur Mason, Larry Lobert, George Lobert, Tim Banks.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lawrence Mason, please visit our floral store.