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.
God received a Great Lady! May she be always remembered.
Dear Bill,
It was an honor and pleasure to know your mom. Jerry and I are thinking of you and your family. She was truly an inspiration and she did God’s work.
Carol and Jerry Klein
Dear Bill and family,
We were so saddened to hear of Marge’s passing. She was the absolute kindest person we have ever had the privilege to meet. She never, ever, had a bad word to say about anything or anyone. She always followed anything she said with a giggle or laugh. She was hard working and nothing ever stopped her. We will miss her smiling face, her hugs, and especially her sense of humor. She will be especially missed at Church and at pyrohy making. We will never forget those great times! Until we meet again, Marge, may you rest in peace.
The Shegda Family
My heartfelt condolences to the whole Lawrence family. May she rest in peace. Prayers going out to all those she left behind.
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family Bill. I always admired the devotion and affection you had for her. God bless her and keep her. She is home.
Bill, I’m so sorry for your loss. Please give my sympathies to your father. Your mom was a great lady and I’m sure she’s in God’s hands now. I’m praying for you and your family.
Bill, I am so extremely saddened by this news. I always thought your Mom was an absolute sweetheart. I will pray for you and your dad as I know you both are heartbroken. My sincerest sympathy goes to you both. I know there are no words….
A woman of good works, and a genuinely sweet person. Her manner always made you feel optimistic. In her case, 92 years are too few.
Bill,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. Marge was such a sweet, kind and loving person. I know she will be missed. Let your father know I am thinking of him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Heartfelt condolences on your loss. May the family always cherish and be blessed by the wonderful memories of her.
Bill,
I didn’t know your mother but I want to say how sorry I am for your loss.
You seem like such a nice person, so, I am sure she was lovely.
Bill,
Joe and I are so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Marge was a very special woman, who loved life, and was generous with her kindness, gentleness, laughter and love. Please let your Dad and brothers — and you — know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. And know, too, that your mother is now at peace in the arms of our Lord.
The Martins
PS You wrote a beautiful tribute about your Mom!
Your mom was a beautiful and genuine lady. She always made me feel so special from the first time I met her and every time there after. My prayers go out to you and your dad and all your family.
Please allow me to offer my most sincere condolences and the following prayer.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
May God bless you and your family.