Obituary

With great sadness our family announces that Paul Lawton has made his last journey on the cowboy’s trail, moved his last herd of cattle, thrown his last curve ball, and flung his final lasso. He departed peacefully at St. Therese Hospital in St. Paul, Alberta on Thursday, July 4 at the age of 85 years. Paul was born in Vilna, Alberta and grew up on the family ranch near Ashmont, Alberta. He attended school at Rocky Bay, and then continued his education at Ashmont School where he graduated. He went on to ranch for many, many years on the land he bought and cherished. He was an avid baseball pitcher, and enjoyed many years as a threat on the mound. Known for his wicked curve ball, slider and fastball, he left opponents swinging and missing. In his senior years he won many horseshoe competitions at the “Senior Provincial Games”.

Paul ranched with his wife Doreen until he was no longer able. He was a cowboy at heart and he taught his children to work hard, play, enjoy sports, and take challenges head on. Paul loved to train his horse teams and provide sleigh rides for his family every Christmas or whenever the opportunity arose. There are so many memories to cherish. Paul was a devoted member of the community, a reliable and helpful neighbor, and a great friend. He always took the time to listen and laugh, and he brought joy to many.

Paul leaves to mourn his loving wife of 62 years, Doreen; children, Debra (Dolfe Oberg) Jackson, Janice (Ed) Strautman, Lance Lawton, Lee (Kristi Fletcher) Lawton & Lynn (Paul) Paquin; 8 grandchildren, Joshua, Leiha & Emma Jackson, Jacob & Ben Strautman, Paige & Jorja Paquin, & one in heaven; 3 brothers, David (Ritta) , Jack (Janet) & Bob (Lorraine); numerous nieces, nephews and relatives; along with old friends, team roping friends & horse-shoeing companions. Paul was predeceased by his parents, Howard & Marian Lawton; and his grandson, Liam Lawton.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, July 12 at 11:00 a.m. at Ashmont Agri-plex, Ashmont. Mr. Steve Upham will be Master of Ceremonies, followed by a cowboy sendoff as Paul is taken to his final resting ground in Ashmont Community Cemetery, Ashmont. Lunch to follow at the Agri-plex. We would like to extend thanks for the help he received at the St. Paul Extendicare and the St. Therese Hospital. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Haying in the 30s (Cancer Support Society) or Alzheimer Society c/o 5626 – 51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1. To send condolences online, please visit www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com.

GRACE GARDENS FUNERAL CHAPEL, 5626 – 51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1 780-645-2677