Ishpeming- Rick Kenneth Lawson, age 50 passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 4, 2009.

Rick was born October 14, 1958 in Ishpeming to Ken & Jean (Niemi) Lawson. He graduated from Westwood High School, class of 1976 and received an associated degree from Northern Michigan University. Rick worked for Carquest in Escanaba for the past 13 years and transferred to the Ishpeming store 3 months ago.

Rick enjoyed nature, being at camp and in the woods, hunting and fishing. He was a wonderful cook and enjoyed preserving food by canning and bottling.

Rick is survived by 3 children: Rick (Sara) Lawson Jr., Rachel Lawson and Rebecca (Brent) Outinen, his parents Ken & Jean Lawson along with several aunts, uncles and cousins. Rick was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Ernest & Tellerva Niemi, paternal grandparents George & Alice Lawson, Uncle Robert Lawson, Aunt Mae Kassmann and a cousin Brian Joseph.

Funeral services will be held 11:00am Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Ishpeming with Rev. Robert Sutherland officiating. Interment will take place in the Ishpeming Cemetery

A visitation will be held on Monday, February 9, 2009 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home from 5:00-7:00pm and again on Tuesday at the Bethany Lutheran Church from 10:00-11:00a.m.

Pallbearers will be Pat Miller, Bill Warner, Bruce Lawson, Brian Lawson, Ted Valeski and Steven Beauchine