Gerald "Jerry" Lawson

Gerald “Jerry” Lawson, 78, of Winona, died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at a senior living center in LaCrosse.

Jerry, the oldest of 5, was born November 28, 1947 in Minneapolis to John and Mary (Ricketson) Lawson. His childhood was filled with family, baseball, and an early knack for all things mechanical. He met the love of his life, Judy Anderson, at Spring Lake Park High School, and they married on August 23, 1969.

After Jerry graduated from the University of Minnesota (Go Gophers!) with a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Jerry and Judy moved to Winona. In addition to being a husband, father of two, and Engineer / Plant Manager at Winona Tool (Winona Van Norman) and DCM Tech, Jerry built communities all around him. He inspired many to join him in his athletic pursuits, including marathons, triathlons, skiing, rowing, and more; he was proud to cheer for his kids, grandkids, or any local team. Jerry’s expertise, craftsmanship, creativity, and elbow grease kept countless cars rolling - from the “winter beaters” he could coax into one more year of service to beautiful muscle cars that broke records on the track.

Jerry was quick to help, quick to laugh, and quick to listen. He never met a baby he didn’t love (and get to smile). He spread love and reaped deep, lifelong friendships.

He is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Erik (Danelle) Lawson and Sara (Steve) Van Driest; grandchildren, Summer (Kyle) Auerbach, Piper, Scarlett and Cooper Lawson and Nadia and MeeMee Van Driest; great-grandchildren Hadley and Stellan; sister, Helen Kriesel; brothers, David and John (Patty) Lawson; numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Brian Lawson.

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 4-7pm at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview. The Memorial Service will be 11am, Thursday, June 11, with visitation one hour prior to the service, all at the funeral home. Following the service, a celebration of Jerry’s life will continue at Remlinger Collector Car Museum from noon to 4pm. Come as you are.

Hoff Celebration of Life Center – Goodview is assisting the family with arrangements. www.hofffuneral.com.