Doreen Lawson

Doreen was born in Ishpeming on February 13, 1931, the daughter of the late John and Irene (Heikkila) Stampee. She grew up in Ishpeming and graduated with the Class of 1948 from Ishpeming High School. In 1949, she married Robert ‘Bra’ Lawson, and together they shared nearly 50 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 1998.

A member of Bethel Lutheran Church, Doreen devoted her early years to her family as a caring homemaker, always making sure her loved ones had a warm meal and a welcoming home. She later worked at Bell Memorial Hospital as a billing clerk, where her friendly smile and kind words greeted countless patients and visitors until her retirement.

Doreen enjoyed simple pleasures throughout her life-baking, cooking, and caring for her home. She loved trips to the casino, working on puzzles, and playing cribbage at the Ishpeming Senior Center. She also cherished her cats and especially treasured outings to Marquette with her daughters, which always included lunch at Big Boy.

She is survived by her children: Susan (Guy) Smith, Judy (Terry) Cattron, Bruce (Connie) Lawson, and Brian (Toni) Lawson; her grand-children Alissa (Kurt) Cattron-Chaudier, Andrea Cattron, Brooke (Joe) Routhier, Kyle (Heather) Smith, Brandon (Beth) Lawson, Jason (Rebecca) Lawson, Kelly (Gene) Daniels, Jared (Jessica) Lawson, Derek (Anura) Lawson, Rebecca (Jason) Gauthier, Megan (Zach) Gauthier, and Griffin (Siiri) Lawson; her much-loved sister Kerry Dodendorf and family; sister-in-law Marcia Lawson; 38 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Doreen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert ‘Bra’ Lawson; siblings Jerry (Barb) Stampee, Doug Stampee, Sonny Stampee, and Marvin Stampee; and brother-in-law Kenny (Jeanne) Lawson.

In keeping with Doreen’s wishes, cremation will take place. A private celebration of her life will be held at her home, with interment at the Ishpeming Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to UPAWS in memory of Doreen.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Jeremy Steele, PA, for his many years of compassionate care and for his final visit to Doreen at her home that meant so much to her. They also wish to thank Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice-especially her nurse, Jamie, and her colleagues-for their kindness and support, as well as the neighbors on Michigan Street for their many years of friendship.

Doreen’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.