Obituary of Laura Lawrence
Laura Elizabeth Lawrence
(nee Michna)
Age 45, of Channahon, peacefully entered eternal life Saturday, August 2, 2014 at her late residence. If you are a gearhead or animal lover, you may want to read on.
Laura was born to John and Diane Michna on September 24, 1968 at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park, Illinois. She graduated from Hillcrest High School in Country Club Hills, Illinois in 1986.
Her favorite perfumes were fresh-cut wood and the pungent odor of burned rubber that lingers after a respectable burnout. She was in her element behind the wheel of her silver '68 Camaro RS that her dear husband of 25 years, James Edward, lovingly restored. The Channahon police never did catch up to her that day, after finding her tearing off while sporting open headers and her 83 year-old neighbor riding shotgun.
You could count on her being in the pits at Grundy County Speedway every Friday night, cheering wildly for her favorite drivers (you know who you are). That poor flea market vendor is probably still scratching his head after he jokingly asked Laura if she needed any carburetors and she replied, "I already have a 780 CFM Holley Double Pumper."
She was a fierce defender of the weak and so fitting were the two white tigers that adorned her back; one brown-eyed tiger for her beautiful firstborn daughter, Kristi Marie and the blue-eyed tiger for her beautiful baby girl, Amber Mae.
You would most likely find her in a old tattered T-shirt, sawdust peppering her long blonde hair, making charming little birdhouses that she would give to everyone she met. Though flattered, she would gently scold you if she found your birdhouse displayed to decorate your mantle; it was well-known that those birdhouses were crafted for their intended inhabitants. Her offerings of "What color birdhouse do you want?" were frequently met with replies of "But I already have ten of them." The mature weeping cherry tree that she lovingly planted as a new wife and mother, would literally tremble with the excited vibrations of birds each morning while she filled their feeders. Her beloved sister-in-law, Margaret Wells (nee Lawrence), shared this common affinity to nature. Wild animals regularly scratched at her back door, knowing that there would be gifts of food and water for the asking. The threat of rabies, after being bitten by a raccoon, was no deterrent as she continued to welcome all of God's creatures, against the protests of her concerned family.
She was well-suited for her role as a Dog Groomer (but preferred the term "Canine Stylist") and established the thriving business 'Laura's Pet Salon.' She might forget your name, but she would never forget your pet's name; reassuring customers that their beloved pets would be well-cared for.
Laura will be always be remembered for her devotion to her friends and family: generosity to those in need; unique charismatic personality; quick-witted, clever, and self-deprecating sense of humor; love of animals and gardening; and passion for auto racing. All of this fueled by endless pots of coffee.
A celebration of her life will be held at her home on Sunday, August 17, 2014 at 12 Noon. All friends and family are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your favorite charity. Online condolences may be left at www.fredcdames.com.
A Memorial Tree was planted for Laura
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Fred C. Dames Funeral Homes