Lawson H. Gilmore

Lawson H. Gilmore, 86, of Rochester Township, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Saturday, August 30, 2014, at Good Samaritan Hospice at Heritage Valley Beaver, due to complications from ALS.Born April 16, 1928, in Dickerson Run (Fayette County), he was a son of the late Lawson Henry Sr. and Bulah Gilmore.  As a young man he was employed at the former Beaver Valley Times.  Following high school graduation he enlisted in the US Army where he proudly served in Germany during World War II.  Upon his return Lawson worked for several local dairy companies, including Farm Dairy Company and later Taylor Milk Company where he was a dedicated salaried employee in charge of distribution.  Lawson started a new challenge by purchasing and for 24 years operating the Dairy Queen of Cranberry Township and later acquired the Round the World Mini Golf adjacent to his Dairy Queen.  He found great pleasure in greeting and serving his customers. Lawson was also an avid reader of Louis L’Amour, author of authentic western novels.He leaves his wife, Ethel Ann (Barnhart) Gilmore, with whom he was united in marriage on August 30, 1952; three children, Kathy Gilmore Brimner and her husband, Gary Brimner, of Economy Boro, Wayne Gilmore of Rochester Township and June Gilmore Smith and her husband, Cecil Smith, also of Rochester Township; eight grandchildren, Darrell Brimner, Ashley Brimner, Stacie Smith Barraclough, Marcie Smith, Cory Smith, Nicole Smith, Brittney Gilmore and Katelynn Gilmore; two great-grandchildren, Noah Hilliard and Gracie Barraclough; a brother, Robert Gilmore of Duluth, Minn.; a sister, Doris Cade of New Sewickley Township and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.A memorial service will be held Wednesday, September 17, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Faith Community United Methodist Church, Rochester, (formerly First United Methodist Church of Rochester) 341 Jefferson St. Rochester, with The Rev. Dr. Donald W. Dotterer, Pastor, officiating.Full military honors will be provided by the Beaver County Special Unit at 11 a.m. at the church.In lieu of flowers the family has suggested memorial contributions may be made, if you wish, to ALS Association, Western Pennsylvania Chapter, 416 Lincoln Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15209.Professional services have been entrusted to the Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.To share online condolences, get directions and other information, please visit simpsonfuneralhome.com.