Margaret Lozinak Lawrence 1924-2016 — Margaret Jane Lozinak Lawrence, a 54-year resident of Springfield, Pa., died June 10 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. She was 92.
She was described by those who knew her best as the kindest, most loving and gentle person they had ever known. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Mrs. Lawrence was born in Eckley, Pa., to Michael and Catherine Lozinak. Michael was a coal miner. She was one of 10 children.
Mrs. Lawrence enrolled in the nursing program in the Old Blockley at Philadelphia General Hospital (PGH) after graduating from Foster Township High School. She always felt that Blockley was the best nursing school in America. Her inspiration was her older sister Mary “Mame” Lozinak who served as a nurse in World War II and would make a career of the military.
After graduating from PGH, Mrs. Lawrence joined the U.S Army’s Nurse Corps. She served in the Korean War with the 11th Evacuation Hospital. A quote from her is inscribed on one of the pillars at the Delaware County Veterans Memorial in Newtown Square. She was among the recipients of the 2015 Delaware County Freedom Medal and participated in the inaugural Philadelphia Veterans Day parade, last fall.
Mrs. Lawrence returned to Philadelphia and continued nursing at the city’s Veterans Administration Hospital. She married William Lawrence in 1959 and became a full-time mom to three boys, William II, Robert and Christopher. She returned to nursing part-time when her sons started school, first at the Philadelphia VA, then at Bishop Nursing Home in Media.
In 1992, she gave up her nursing career to become office manager of the family business, the Garnet Valley Press, a job she held until 2008.
She enjoyed taking long walks with her dog, Peewee, and helping her son William make wine.
During her three-week hospital stay, her biggest concerns were celebrating her granddaughter Miranda’s birthday and a Father’s Day party for her husband. She had a joy for life, her mind was great until the end and her last words were literally laughter.
She is survived by her husband and sons; her daughter-in-law Cynthia;, her grandchildren, Anthony, Miranda, Kyley and Skyler; sisters Elsie and Dorothy; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be 9:30 a.m., Friday, June 17, at Holy Myrrh-Bearer’s Church, 900 Fairview Road, Swarthmore, PA 19081 with a service to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Myrrh-Bearer’s.