William Ernest Lawson Obituary
With sadness, we share the passing of William Ernest Lawson (Grand Rapids, Michigan). William, born on March 30, 1941 in Chicago, Illinois, passed away on July 18, 2026. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
He was predeceased by: his siblings, Shirley and Thomas; his son-in-law Jovo Filips; his granddaughters, Jessie and Jordan; and his niece Betty.
He is survived by: his close friend Gracia Lawson; his children, Michelle Filips, David Scott VanHaitsma (Michelle), William Ernest Lawson Jr. (Sandra) and Susan Daycak (Clint); and his grandchildren, Charles G. Gies (Leah), Carson Filips, Alexandra Cultrara (Nick), William Joseph Lawson (Megan), Elizabeth Crandall (Ryan), Toni Kolatski (Gary), Samuel Lawson, Gracia Louise Lawson, Alexis Brown (Nick), Jeremy Scott VanHaitsma (Heather), Nicole Thompson (Gerold), Megan Palange and Jordyn Daycak. He is also survived by great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
In keeping with Bill's generous spirit and lifelong commitment to serving others, the family kindly requests that you don't send flowers - instead consider a donation in his memory to either the West Michigan Veterans Ranch, supporting veterans and their families locally, or Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, supporting children and families in need.
