Charles William Lawrence

Born in Buffalo, Wyoming, in 1945, Chuck spent his formative years in Kirkland, Washington, graduating from Lake Washington High School in 1963. He then joined the Navy where he was lucky to be trained and work in electronics technology and communications (before it was trendy). After being honorably discharged, Chuck went to college at Western Washington University, where he graduated with a teaching certificate. He started his teaching career as an Industrial Arts Teacher in Twisp, Washington, but soon changed his career path to work for Howard S. Wright Construction in Seattle, using drafting and engineering skills he learned along the way to help design the Interstate 5 Skagit River Bridge.

After working in construction, Chuck used his talent, skills and training, to work in engineering for General Telephone, which later became Verizon. After 23 years he retired in 2002.

Chuck was fortunate in Adventure when discovered a love of motorcycles and shared the joy of riding and the beauty of the open road with life-long friends. He loved planning and experiencing the intoxicating beauty of the United States, from its lakes to its mountains and through its National Parks. Hearing Chuck enthusiastically describe his riding trips was entertaining and awe-inspiring. Chuck’s love of history meant many of his trips were to Civil War and Indian War battlefields so he better appreciated many of the historical books he collected and read.

Chuck also shared laughter and 30-plus years of friendship with a group called ARF (Associated Replay Football). No matter where Chuck lived, he kept his friendship connections strong.

Chuck was also lucky in Love. Chuck met the love of his life, Lois Tompkins, by chance-at the right time and the right place. It was a whirlwind romance, meeting in February 1999 and marrying in January, 2000. They shared a love of family, friends, great parties, golf, and compassion, always willing to help people in need. Chuck and Lois were always quick to don a Hawaiian shirt, to celebrate Jimmy Buffet or simply a Margarita!

Lois and Chuck, who also known as CW, Chucker or Dubby, lived in Kirkland, Trilogy in Redmond, Washington and in Sun City Festival, in Buckeye, AZ. where Chuck contracted COVID and passed away from multiple complications on Nov. 17, 2020.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Lois; his brother Jerry (Grace) Lawrence; brother-in-law Ed (Joyce) Hendricks; step daughter Christina (Steve) Young; grandchildren Dylan, Levi, Chase and Taryn. As well as several remarkable nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his sister, Margo A Skidmore; Parents Rowena H and Charles W Lawrence, Jr.