James Andrew Lawrence

James Lawrence, 39 of Petoskey, died unexpectedly on April 13, 2017.

James was born on January 23, 1978, the son of Robert and Kay (Mackie) Lawrence. He grew up and graduated high school in Brimley, Michigan. As a young boy, James showed promise in his athletic ability. He was a track star at his high school, coming in second overall for the entire Upper Peninsula. He also excelled in hockey.

After high school, James joined the United States Army. He later attended Northern Michigan University where he obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Athletic Administration in 2000.

James moved to the Petoskey area in 2007 for work and met the love of his life, Amanda Gray. On February 7, 2009, James and Amanda were married.

James loved to hunt, snowmobile, watch sports and listen to music. He especially loved hair bands and Gordon Lightfoot. More than anything, James loved his son Evan and spending time with him was the greatest joy in the world.

He was an extremely social person and was always engaging people in conversation. James was the kind of person that made you feel his love; he truly knew how to show appreciation, an attribute that is rare in others but came easily to him. James was a strong Christian man who raised his son and led his household with the faith. He will be remembered for his giving, kind and thoughtful spirit.

James is survived by his wife, Amanda Lawrence of Petoskey; his son, Evan Lawrence; his parents, Robert and Kay Lawrence of Brimley, MI.; brothers, Rob (Nikki) Lawrence of Denver, CO. and Tom Lawrence of New York; sister, Kayce (John Carey) Lawrence of New York; nieces and nephews, Andrew, Alex and Alyse Lawrence, Mackenzie, Kayleigh and Alyssa Gray and Jordan Sirmons; in-laws, Lucas (Mandy) Gray of Elmira, MI. and Holly (Matt Graves) Gray of Petoskey, MI.; and mother-in-law, Anna Gray of Petoskey.

James is preceded in death by his father-in-law, Myron Gray.

There will be a funeral service at Stone Funeral Home in Petoskey, Monday, April 17, at 11:00 a.m. with a one hour gathering prior to the service. Pastor Casey Smith will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations to James's family will be appreciated.

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