John David Lawler

John David Lawler, 82, of Springfield, passed away at 4:00 p.m., surrounded by family, on Tuesday, September 3, 2013 at Memorial Medical Center. John was born August 11, 1931 in Springfield, the son of Thomas F. and Thelma E. Trent Lawler. He married Betty Tengler on October 20, 1951 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. John was a graduate of Springfield High School. He served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army during the Korean War, 73rd Tank, earning two Bronze Service Stars, a United National Service Medal, and a National Defense Service Medal. John retired in 1993 after 27 years of service with the United States Government, Housing and Urban Development. Following retirement, he worked part-time from 1999-2003 for Pleasant Plains School as a bus driver. John enjoyed golfing and playing cards. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Thomas and Donald. He is survived by his wife, Betty of Springfield; his son, J. David (wife, Anne) Lawler II of Auburn; his daughter, Karen K. (husband, Harry) Buck of Springfield; five grandchildren, Shannon (husband, Dan), Morgan, Aaron, Zachary, and Travis; three step- great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 8, 2013 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 9, 2013 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 South Walnut St., Springfield with Rev. Dennis Kollross, celebrant. Private family burial at Camp Butler National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 South Walnut St., Springfield, IL 62704.