Kirt M. Lawson

Kirt M. Lawson, a cherished educator, devoted family man, and pillar of the La Porte community, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, in his hometown of La Porte, Indiana. Born on October 24, 1958, to Gerald "Jerry" Lawson and Ruth "Cheech" (Smith) Lawson, Kirt's life was a testament to the values of kindness, hard work, and selflessness that he embodied every day.

Kirt's journey began in La Porte, where he was a beacon of loyalty and dedication from his youth. After graduating from La Porte High School in 1977, he pursued higher education at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, setting the stage for what would become a lifelong commitment to empowering others through learning. Kirt returned to his alma mater as the Industrial arts technology teacher and the Building Trades teacher for LaPorte High School, where he would shape the lives of students for over three decades.

On August 20, 1982, Kirt married the love of his life, Terri Jones, who survives him. Together, they raised two daughters, Katie (Chad) Mrozinski of New Carlisle, Indiana, and Karlee (Kristian) Dodson of Valparaiso, Indiana. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his grandchildren, Lyla and Clark Mrozinski, and Klayton and Klara Dodson. Kirt's love for his family was the cornerstone of his life, and his legacy lives on through them.

Kirt's sister, Kim Rose, and brother, Mark (Jody Bates) Lawson, both of La Porte, will fondly remember their brother's unwavering spirit. He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald "Jerry" Lawson, and is survived by his mother, Ruth "Cheech" Lawson, who will miss her son's kind-hearted presence.

Although Kirt had many interests and accomplishments, his most fulfilling moments were spent with family, especially his four grandchildren.

In addition to his family, Kirt's professional life was marked by notable achievements and contributions. He was the former owner of Lawson and Sons Insulation, a successful business that he operated for over 30 years. But it was his role as a school teacher at La Porte High School that truly defined his impact on the community. Kirt's dedication to his students was evident in his impeccable attendance, missing only one day in his teaching career, and in the practical skills and life lessons he imparted.

Kirt's classes were responsible for building over 24 homes in the La Porte area, as well as significant community projects that showcased their craftsmanship and Kirt's leadership. His commitment to service extended beyond the classroom, as he sponsored the Fishing Club, mentored students through the School Buddies program, and coached wrestling at both the middle and high school levels.

His community involvement was vast, including partnerships with local organizations to support causes like childhood cancer research, where he helped raise over $20,000 through Alex's Lemonade Stand. Kirt was a recipient of multiple awards, including the Volunteer of the Year for La Porte County Parks in 2019, the Butterfly Award from Worthy Women's Recovery Home, Learn Today to Excel Tomorrow award for LaPorte slicers in 2023. A man of faith, he was a member of Holy Family Parish, Sacred Heart Church in La Porte.

Kirt was also a Third Degree Knight at the Knights of Columbus, a Shoot Master at Stillwell Rod and Gun Club, and a founding member and vice president of NWI Fishing Fundamentals. His efforts to create fishing opportunities for underprivileged children were a reflection of his analytical mind and selfless heart.

Kirt was a man with vast interests including, all types of fishing, kayaking, camping, hiking, pontoon boats, trap shooting with Terri, snow shoeing, the Green Bay Packers football, and served as the Ringman for 25 years with the La Porte County Draft Horse Association.

In 2023, Kirt was honored as the Secondary Teacher of the Year, a fitting accolade for a man who dedicated his life to the betterment of others. Kirt Lawson will be remembered as a man who lived by example, teaching not just through words, but through his actions and the kindness he showed to everyone he met. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence the community of La Porte for generations to come.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 PM Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana, where the family will have Words of Remembrance at 6:30 PM, followed by a Parish Vigil service at 6:45 PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11AM Friday, April 4, 2025, at Holy Family Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 201 Bach Street, La Porte, Indiana.

Family and friends may gather Friday morning from 9:30AM to 10:30AM in the funeral home prior to the Mass.

Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat For Humanity, Northwest Indiana Fishing Fundamentals, Holy Family Parish, Sacred Heart Church, or Knights of Columbus Council 1542 of La Porte.

To light virtual candle, share a story of Kirt’s life or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com

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