Joseph Mathew Lawrence

Joseph Mathew Lawrence, 75, of Hooversville, died April 1, 2023 at Memorial Medical Center Johnstown. Born July 8, 1947 in Johnstown, son of the late Joseph and Frances (Wise) Lawrence.

Survived by wife the former Diana Reynolds; children: Krista Kelly and husband Randy, Wilbur, Michael Lawrence and fiancée Lisa Potoka, Westmont, and Jennifer Gramling and husband David, South Fork; grandchildren: Brett Kelly, Collin Kelly, Jordan (Alyssa) Younkins, Ashlyn (Ricky) Watson, and Joseph and Anthony Lawrence; great granddaughter Olivia Watson; great grandson Ledger Younkins; and sister Joanne (Ned) Renzi, Souderton.

Joseph was a devoted father and loving husband. He was a 1965 graduate of Forbes High School.  Joseph was a Vietnam War Army/U.S. Army National Guard Veteran, serving his country for 30 years, and retired at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3.  Lifetime member of the Hooversville V.F.W. He had a thirst for knowledge, and a passion for trains, U.S. Navy warships, model railroading, model shipbuilding, and World War II history. He enjoyed reading in his spare time, taking rides around the country side to chase a train or two, and vacations with his family to Virginia Beach.  Joseph will be deeply missed, gone but never forgotten. May he join those he served with and those who died before him. For the warrior that he was, a hero he will always be.

Family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Deaner Cremation Center, 976 Barn St., Hooversville, where service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday. Military Honors provided by the Somerset Co. Honor Guard at the funeral home. Rev. Aron Maghsoudi celebrant. Arrangements by Deaner Funeral Homes. DeanerFuneralsAndCremations.com