A family gathering for Jerald W. Lawson, age 71, of Clarks Grove, will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, at Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home. At 2:30 p.m., Deacon Mike Ellis will officiate a prayer service. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Jerald William Lawson was born Aug. 23, 1934, to Earl and Sarah (Kiley) Lawson in Clarks Grove. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After his discharge, Jerald returned to Freeborn County. He was married to Erna Lawson and later Judy Loven Lawson, who preceded him in death. Jerald was a heavy equipment operator for several companies in the area, retiring in the late 1980s. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW, and 49er’s Union. Jerald enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling and camping.

Survivors include his children: Kolla Brunhild Lawson of Seattle, Rose and her husband, Stephen Ward of Washington, Barney Lawson and Lynn Wheelock of Janesville, and Annette Lawson of Washington; five grandchildren; sister, Bonnie Muri of Geneva; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jerald was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Alice Halter and Judy Thompson.