Gerald William Nower

Gerald William Nower, 70, of Lawrence passed away suddenly on Tuesday, July 2, 2013, at his home.

Gerald was born Nov. 11, 1942, in Redlands, Calif., the son of Dale and Lorraine (Gerow) Nower, both of whom preceded him in passing. Gerald was also preceded in passing by a sister, Wilma McDaniel, and his stepmother, Marie Nower.

Gerald enjoyed spending precious times with his loving family, which consists of his wife, Shirley; a daughter, Cindy Nower of Lawrence; a son, Rodney (Liz) Wilson of Galesburg; three grandchildren: Travis Wilson, Noah Nower and Isaac Nower; a sister, Linda (Phillip) Marshall; and two brothers: James Nower of Bangor and Denver (Renee) Nower of Stevensville.

Gerald retired from Whirlpool Corp. in 2000. He served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After his tour of duty he became a member of the Hess-Eastman Post 174 in Lawrence. He was a member of the Lawrence Fire Department for 25 years, serving part of the time as Chief and Assistant Chief, as well as being on the Lawrence Quick Response. He served as the Lawrence Village President, was a member of the Michigan Flywheelers and was on the Ox Roast Committee.

The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 5, 2013, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A celebration of life service to honor Gerald’s memory will commence at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 6, 2013, at the Lawrence United Methodist Church, with Pastor Cliff Radtke officiating. Gerald will be laid to rest in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence, with military rites being conducted by the Hess-Eastman Post 174 and the fireman’s last call by the Lawrence Fire Department. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so by visiting our website at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.