Robert Melroy Lawless

With deep admiration, we honor the life and legacy of Robert Melroy Lawless, who passed away at the remarkable age of 104. Born on June 18, 1922, in Haxtun, Colorado, to Grace Whittacker and Jim Lawless, Robert's journey was shaped by courage, perseverance, and devotion to family and country.

At the age of one, Robert and his family relocated from Colorado to Oregon. At five, a childhood accident caused him to lose sight in his right eye, delaying his schooling, yet it never diminished his determination. Through the challenges of his era, he persevered and graduated from Salem High School in the class of 1941.

Answering the call to service, Robert joined the Army in 1942. He was honorably discharged in 1946, only to be recalled for the Korean conflict from 1950 to 1951. He attended Army Medical School at Fort Benjemen, dedicating his service as a medical technician. His spirit of resilience and care for others was evident in his commitment to the wellbeing of fellow soldiers.

After his military service, Robert married and became a loving stepfather to two children; though the marriage ended in divorce, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of purpose. He built a successful career in construction as a bricklayer, establishing his own business. Over 35 years, he achieved the distinction of third-degree masonry, marking an outstanding 66 years in his craft.

Robert's adventurous spirit led him to Overton, Nevada, where he purchased ten acres and lived for over seven years. Later, he moved to Goldfield, Nevada, spending a decade in the community. While driving the senior bus in Tonopa, Nevada, he met Lorene Pennington, and together they moved to Pinehurst, Idaho, bought a home, and were married. Lorene passed away in 2013, and Robert lived alone thereafter, surrounded by the love of his extended family.

He leaves behind a legacy enriched by family—children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren. Through a lifetime spanning over a century, filled with trials, achievements, and cherished moments, Robert Melroy Lawless exemplified resilience, kindness, and dedication. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered for the extraordinary life he lived.

Graveside services with military honors will be held at a later date at the Washington State Veteran’s Cemetery in Medical Lake, WA.

Memories of Robert and messages of condolence may be shared online with this family at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services of the Silver Valley is caring for the family.