Roger W Lawson

Roger Wayne Lawson, affectionately known as “Big O” by his friends and “Uncle Roger” by many throughout the community, passed away on December 6, 2025, in Manhattan, Kansas, at the age of 80. He was born on May 16, 1945, to Wayne and Helen Lawson.

Roger was known for his vibrant personality—funny, witty, and kind—and for his natural ability to make everyone around him feel valued and loved. He cherished his family deeply and prioritized every moment spent together. Holiday gatherings at the home he shared with Sue became treasured traditions filled with stories, laughter, and lasting memories. His devotion to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandson was evident in every aspect of his life.

Roger attended Pleasant View School for eight years before continuing his education in Junction City, where he graduated in 1963. After high school, he worked on the construction of Milford Dam and later as a mechanic at J.C. Co-op, Montgomery Ward, City Cycle Sales, Skelly Station, and Meyers Construction. Over the years, he owned and operated a local car wash, purchased and managed the trailer court on East 6th Street, and built and oversaw Midland Acres Mobile Home Park. In 1999, Roger founded his own construction company, completing numerous small projects throughout Junction City and Fort Riley. His work was always marked by dedication, craftsmanship, and a generosity of spirit that endeared him to many.

Roger married Wynetta Ann Stewart on May 7, 1966, in Junction City, and together they had two daughters, Amy and Ann Lawson. They later divorced in 1975.

On December 15, 1978, Roger married the love of his life, Sue Cervera Ziegler, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together they created a beautifully blended family of four children.

Roger had many passions, especially motorcycles and classic cars. But above all, his greatest joy came from the life he built with his family. He will be remembered not only for his hard work and contributions to the community but for the countless lives he touched with his humor, warmth, and unwavering kindness.

Roger is survived by his beloved wife, Victoria Sue Lawson; his son Kenny (Michelle) Ziegler; daughters Amy Brown, Ann (Don) Minor, and Lynn Ziegler; and his grandchildren Danie (Brandon) Martino, Morgan Ziegler, Seth Brown, Jessica Brown, Kadyn Ziegler, Maddie Minor, and Claire Minor. He also delighted in being a great-grandfather to Bennett Martino. Additional survivors include his sister Mary Beth (Harvey) Thompson, along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and many cherished friends. All will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his nephew Ryan Thompson, and his niece Deenie Cervera.

Visitation will be held on December 19, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt 203 N. Washington St., Junction City, Kansas. A memorial service will follow on December 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church, 113 West 5th Street, Junction City, Kansas.

Roger W. Lawson leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and steadfast family values that will continue to resonate with all who knew him. His humor and kindness will be profoundly missed, but his memory will forever be cherished.

Private family burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to American Cancer Society Hope Lodge; 1120 Pennsylvania Avenue Kansas City, Missouri 64105, First Presbyterian Church; 113 W. 5th Street Junction City, Kansas 66441, or Saint Xavier Church; 218 N. Washington Street Junction City, Kansas 66441 may be sent in care of Johnson & Mass-Hinitt.