Patricia Ann Lawrence
January 15, 1932 - January 12, 2022

Pat Lawrence was reunited with her parents, siblings, son, Brian Bushman, grandson, Kris Paulson, and Jesus Christ on Wednesday, January 12, 2022. She passed peacefully in her sleep with family by her side. She was born in Chicago, IL on January 15, 1932, to Frank and Bridget (Connelly)Hann. At the age of 15 she went to the convent to become a nun. Much to the delight of her 9 children, 19 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren. She ran away 6 months into her stay.
Pat worked hard her entire life and held a variety of jobs including meter reader, waitress, and manager of the 4-H Diner at the Carlton County Fair.
Pat spent many years volunteering and serving her community by preparing taxes for the elderly, serving as a cub scout leader, and holding various officer positions at both the Barnum and Rushford American Legion Auxiliary.
Pat enjoyed crocheting afghans, doing crossword puzzles, fishing, knitting, and camping in her own camper. Occasionally, Pat paid homage to her proud Irish roots by partaking in some Drambuie shots with family and friends into the wee hours of the morning. She was instantly loved by everyone she met. No matter the person's age or background, she became their grandma. She was lovingly referred to as Grandma Pat, Grandma G and G-Bone. She loved meeting new people.
What Pat loved most in the world were her children. This was evident by her telling of stories about each and every one of them during their childhood. She told these stories over and over and over again. Pat never stopped worrying about her children's health and happiness and prayed for them daily.
She will be greatly missed by her children: Tim Powers of Merrillville, IN, Elaine Paulson of Rushford, MN, Sue (Dale) Calverley of Mahtowa, MN, Mary (Dominic) Williams of Valparaiso, IN, Sharon (Melvin) Palmer of St. Marks, FL, Kevin Powers of Merrillville, IN, Bill Powers of Barnum, MN and Patrick (Tina) Bushman of Owasso, MI.
Pat loved to travel, and she often didn't stay in one place very long, going on many "walkabouts" throughout her life. The last two decades of Pats life have been spent in Rushford protecting her great-grandchildren, Cody, and Coltin Paulson from their parents, Scuffy Paulson and Tami Sheff. Pat made sure that they were sufficiently spoiled with lots of love, toys, and minimal discipline. She ensured their complete freedom and happiness by getting them anything their heart desired, which sometimes included puppies, mice, and chickens. She achieved this by sneaking around and occasional "discussions" that may or may not have involved her dropping a few profanities and the occasional middle finger. She will be missed dearly by all who knew her.
May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall softly upon your fields, and Until we meet again, May the Good Lord hold you in the Hollow of His hand.
There will be a celebration of life for Pat at 3:00 pm on April 16, 2022, at the Rushford American Legion in Rushford, MN.

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