James R. Lawn

Peterborough, New Hampshire
 
JAMES R. LAWN, 96, died Monday, February 25, 2008 at the Good Shepherd Health Care Center, in Jaffrey after a period of declining health.
 
He was born in Lawrence, Mass on December 18, 1911, the eldest son of Alexander G. and Annie (Hendrey) Lawn.
 
Mr. Lawn moved to Peterborough in 1941 to open a singer sewing machine store.  Because of steel rationing during WWII, his store closed in 1942.  He went to work for General Electric in Fitchburg, Mass. as an inspector until 1952.  Over the years he worked as a production supervisor and/or plant superintendent for Raytheon in Hooksett, NH, Electropac/Honeywell in Peterborough, NH, Sylvania in Hillsborough, NH, Davidson Rubber Company in Dover, NH, New Hampshire Ball Bearings in Peterborough, NH, and he retired from Tricnit Industries in 1971.  In addition to his regular employment, he always sold and fixed sewing machines as a sideline until he turned 90.
 
Mr. Lawn was a member of the United Methodist Church in Peterborough for over 60 years.  He was also a 50-year member of Altemont Lodge #26, F&AM of Peterborough, Eastern Star, Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Rebekahs.  He served 6 years as a member of the Peterborough Budget Committee, 10 years as a Peterborough Selectman, and various terms on the Peterborough Planning Board, Long-Range Planning Committee, Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Contoocook/North Branch Rivers Advisory Committee.  He, along with former DPW Director, John Isham, were instrumental in introducing a recycling program in the Town of Peterborough in the 1970s.
 
He was predeceased by two sisters and a brother, his first wife, Louise, his second wife, Phyllis, a son, David, grandsons Stephen Putnam and Roland Lawn, and a granddaughter, Virginia Cheney.
 
Mr. Lawn is survived by his sons Robert of Palmyra, Maine and Gregory of Peterborough, NH, and his daughter Alta of Plymouth, Maine; 14 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren; his  brother Alexander G. Lawn, Jr., of Methuen, Mass, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Lawns name to the United Methodist Church, 43 Concord Street, Peterborough, NH 03458.

Burial will take place in the spring at Pine Hill Cemetery in Peterborough.

Family and friends are warmly invited to calling hours on Friday, February 29, 2008 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at the Cournoyer Funeral Home & Cremation Center at 33 River Street in Jaffrey.  The Masonic Service will be conducted at 7:30 PM.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2008 at 11:00 AM at the United Methodist Church, 43 Concord Street, Peterborough.  Rev. Elizabeth Davis, Pastor, will officiate.