Lawrence was born on Jan. 20, 1930, to Eric and Clarice (Downing) Fisher. He was born in the house of his grandparents, Everett and Nettie (Read) Downing in Stayton, Oregon. Shortly after his birth, he moved to the family farm on Waldo Hills Dr., where he lived for most of his life.
Growing up, Lawrence worked alongside his father and grandfather on the family farm. They raised strawberries, hops, oats, and feed for the horses. They also raised milk cows, sheep, chickens and pigs. In the late 1940’s, grass seed was becoming an important crop. Most of this continues to be part of the family farm today.
In 1952, Lawrence married Mabel Zimmerman of Salem. He was drafted into the Army shortly after their wedding. After basic training, Lawrence was stationed in Hawaii for duty. When they returned, they built their home together and raised their four children, Beverly, Ralph, Donna and Christina. In 2005, Lawrence married Betty (Harris, Robbins) King of Silverton. Lawrence and Betty spent several years traveling together and eventually moved to Lincoln City. In 2016, Lawrence moved into Mt. Angel Towers, where he lived the remainder of his life.
He was dedicated to his community by being a long-time member of the Victor Point Elementary School Board, The Silverton Union High School Board, and the Santiam Hospital Board. In addition, he served on the Highland Bentgrass Commission and the Oregon Seed Council. He was also a part of starting the Silverton High School Alumni Association. Lawrence was a longtime member of Stayton Church of Christ, serving as an Elder, and on the Winema Christian Camp Board of Directors.
Lawrence is survived by his children, Beverly Wold, Silverton; Ralph (Sue) Fisher, Sublimity; Donna (Jeff) Kestek, West Linn; Christina (Jerry) Blackwell, Angier, North Carolina; 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Douglas, Betty Fisher and her extended family. He is proceeded in death by his wife, Mabel, sister and brother-in-law; Alice Jean and Richard Barnes; and son-in-law, Palmer Wold.
The family would like to thank all staff at Mt. Angel Towers for his excellent care. It is greatly appreciated. Celebration of life will be on Saturday, March 28, at 1 pm.., at Emmanuel Bible Church, 8512 Sunnyview Rd. NE, Salem. Remembrance in lieu of flowers can be made to Silverton High School Alumni Association and Santiam Memorial Hospital.
