A gentle giant, Lawrence Johannson, passed away on October 2, 2024, surrounded by four generations of family. Lawrence is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Carole; son Dean (Tina); daughters Catherine and Lara (Jerry Shewchuk); grandchildren: Christopher (Keely), Alycia (Naser), Kristjan, Ryan (Abigail), Selena (Eric), Elizabeth (Kyle), Nicholas (Jasmine), and Anders (Giuliana); and great-grandchildren: Katarina, Henrique, Margaret, Sophia, Leon, Lyla, and Angelika. He is also survived by his siblings Wally (Sandra), Barbara (Bernest Orbanski), and Neil (Denise), as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Lawrence was predeceased by his parents, Thorkell and Gudrun; parents-in-law, Sigrun and Carl Lavergne; sister Eleanor; brother Ronald; and sister-in-law Norma.
Lawrence was born in January 1940 in Arborg, Manitoba, where he was raised as well. Lawrence and Carole were childhood sweethearts who met at an Arborg Luther Rally in 1958, and they shared 66 wonderful years together. His love for family was always evident, lighting up whenever a family member entered the room. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his treasures. Although a quiet man, when Lawrence spoke, his words were always worth listening to. His sense of humor remained strong until his final day.
From a young age, Lawrence had a mischievous spark, which led to his lifelong career as a Journeyman Electrician. He worked for Keewatin Electric until 1971, when he proudly founded Inner-City Enterprises, which he owned and operated until his retirement.
Lawrence’s true passion, however, was the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. A dedicated fan for over 50 years, he was a proud season ticket holder, rarely missing a game or a Grey Cup and always cheering on his beloved team. His loyalty to the Blue Bombers was unmatched, and it was a big part of who he was. In addition, he enjoyed following the Winnipeg Jets.
Lawrence’s family extends heartfelt thanks to: Dr. Adeniyi (ADE) Adegbesan, Dr. Martin Karpinski, Dr. Joseph Silha and Dr. Lorne Hurst for all the years and quality time they spent with Lawrence.
A Happy Hour for family and friends to send Lawrence on his journey will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Johnson Hall, Waterfront Centre, 94 1st Avenue, Gimli, Manitoba.
Memorial donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Lawrence’s memorial page using the comment field below.
Rest in peace Dad ~ I’m sure going to miss you! Thank you for sending me my first loonie so I know you’re in a good place 🥰
Hey Dad, I just want you to know both the Blue Bombers and the Jets have won their last game. I miss that I can’t call you and talk to you. Love and miss you.
I didn’t know him well but he left wonderful family members behind whom make the world a better place.
Mr. Lawrence was very kind and a true gentleman. We are very proud he was Sophia’s grandfather. He will be missed by all of us. May the soul of your father rest in peace.
Lawrence was indeed a gentle giant. His quiet presence will be missed by many I am sure. My sincere condolences to all friends and family. I hope happy memories start to rise as you go through the days ahead. 💔
I asked Lawrence one day during a Happy Hour , “what was your nickname growing up?”
With a poker straight face , he replied , “Brother!”
I had to confirm with his brother Wally that he wasn’t pulling my leg … Wally gave me the head nod !!
I looked at Lawrence with some sass, “Well … brother it is then ! “
Lawrence held my grimace as he said … “Okay Sister ! “
Since that day , whenever I passed Lawrence , I always gave him a head nod with a “hello Brother,” his response without fail was “hello sister!” I’m still not quite certain if we were teasing one another each greeting , nonetheless… that was our bond.
One day this summer, Walter, Brother and I ventured off for a nice walk on the pier.
The boys needed to keep a slow pace because I was on foot. Like good Ol boys , they stayed close.
I am deeply grateful to Carole for such an honour to have Lawrence’s walker.
I didn’t realize how bumpy mine was until I took his for my first cruise. Quite an upgrade to say the least.
It’s like I traded in my old jalopy for a Cadillac!
Walking like a proud peacock these days.
… again … thank you !!
I picture him soaring with the Eagles.
Watching over his family … bringing them Loonies , just like Cathy asked for.
Great Man … hands down ..
Xoxo
I didn’t,t know Lawrence,only Carole but if she loved him he must have been a good man.love is enough.
Carole, Dean, Cathi and Lara, you have my sympathy and deepest condolences. Our time is never long enough with those we love. Thinking of you all.
-Karen
Lawrence a great mentor in my life, he started me off on the road to my current career as an electrician. He was my second dad. I made sure, that I did for him a great job, dedication to him, at IG Group he showed me that a great job was always our no. 1 priority for 37 years, of my involvement. Amongst other corporations, Videon Cable, later (Shaw/Rogers) CKY TV, KY58, 92 citi Fm, Sears Canada, and others, people like Randy Moffat and other owners and CEO’s over his years of his career loved him and new him by his first name! The love for this man will always be in my heart.. A good person to all that met him along his path in life.. He will be missed by myself and others, may you find peace in God’s kingdom.. Till then keep efying the heavens.. And you take care of Roy Barta who was a close friend and is now with you..