DAVID LEE LAWSON, 67 , passed away on August 5, 2025, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, with his loving family by his side. His journey was one of service, devotion, kindness, and deep love for those who were blessed to know him.

David was born in Chillicothe, Missouri, on June 10, 1958, to Les and Henrietta Lawson. He grew up in Chillicothe, attending school there and building lifelong friendships. Life changed for David when he lost his mother at just nine years old, but even through heartache, he showed a quiet resilience that would carry him throughout his life. He graduated from Chillicothe High School before answering the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Air Force on July 4, 1976.

For 19 years, David served faithfully with Air Force Security, traveling to far-reaching places such as Sicily; Wellford, England; North Dakota; Charlotte, North Carolina; South Carolina; and finally, Wichita, Kansas. His honorable discharge on June 30, 1995, marked the end of one chapter, but his sense of duty and discipline would remain with him always.

In 1994, David welcomed his first child, Jarvis, into the world—a moment that filled his heart with pride and joy. Around the same time, he began working as a tech at St. Joseph Hospital, quietly observing and learning from his colleagues. In 1995, David decided to pursue a new dream and enrolled at Butler Community College, where he earned his RN license in 1997—the same year his daughter, Carlee, was born. Returning to St. Joseph as a registered nurse, David poured his heart into caring for others. In April 2006, he accepted a new role as a Charge Nurse at Galichia, a position he embraced with dedication and compassion.

When Galichia became Wesley Woodlawn, fate stepped in. It was there David met Olga Juarez, the woman who would become his life partner and best friend. In 2013, at a birthday party for Olga's sister Eve, David and Olga began talking—and never stopped. Their connection was immediate, genuine, and enduring. From that day on, they were inseparable, building a life rich with love, laughter, travel and shared dreams.

David retired from Wesley Woodlawn in 2020, but retirement didn't slow him down—it simply allowed him to take on his favorite role yet: Grandpa. He cherished every moment with his grandchildren, being present for their milestones, games, and celebrations. Family was everything to David, and he loved gathering everyone together, especially for anniversaries—his and Olga's, and those of anyone else he loved.

David's passions were as varied as they were heartfelt. He enjoyed playing golf and pickleball (until a shoulder injury sidelined him), and he was a proud ham radio operator under the name KE0IOU. Music was another joy—he played guitar and once took lessons alongside his son. He also loved racing games on his Xbox, competing with his "circuit" of friends. No matter what he did, David brought generosity, humor, and a willingness to help others.

David's life was defined not only by his achievements but by his character—steadfast, caring, and deeply devoted to his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Olga; his son, Jarvis Lawson (Haley); daughter, Carlee Lawson (Peter Merrill); brother, Steve Lawson; grandson Sterling Dold; mother-in-law, "Tiny Grandma"; stepdaughter, Jackie Stanberry (Nick) and their children, Jason, Taylor, Owen, and Claire; stepson, Jacob Bornowsky (Nicole) and their children, Beckett and Blakely; stepdaughter, Jana Miller (Chris) and their daughter, Mila; and stepdaughter, Jerica Bornowsky and her children, Max Mellinger and Wyatt Bornowsky. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Cooper, along with many other family members, close coworkers, and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Reliance Community Church, 11910 W Pawnee St, Wichita, KS 67215.

Memorial donations may be made in David's memory to Us TOO for Prostate Cancer, made out to: Wichita, Kansas Chapter, Us TOO Intl., Inc. and sent to any Intrust Bank branch.

David's life was a testament to love, service, and unwavering dedication to the people who mattered most. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.