Lawrence Alfred Fowler

COLUMBUS

Lawrence A. Fowler, 100, of Columbus, passed peacefully on Dec. 31, 2020 at the home of his granddaughter, Carissa. His death came after a brief illness. He was born to Leonard and Ruth (Porter) Fowler on Jan. 23, 1920, in Bartholomew County.

He graduated from Edinburgh High School in 1937. Following high school, he participated in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) at Henryville, IN, completing the program as an honor graduate. After the two year CCC experience, he was employed as a materials purchasing clerk during the early stages of construction at both the Charlestown Powder Plant (Jeffersonville) and Camp Atterbury (Edinburgh).

Lawrence left the position at Camp Atterbury to enlist in the U.S. Navy. He proudly served during World War II in the Pacific Theater as a Seabee. Following the war, he married the love of his life, Norma J. Prall, on Dec. 2, 1945, in Henryville, IN.

He returned to Camp Atterbury at the start of the Korean War, as a carpenter, in the Facilities and Engineering Department. Following deactivation of Camp Atterbury in 1954, he returned to his life as a farmer and private contractor in construction, excavation, and timber management. During this time period, he also built four homes for his family. In addition, he served as a bus driver for the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. for more than 30 years, and later as a bus driver for the Senior Citizens’ Center.

Lawrence was one of the founding members of the German Township Volunteer Fire Department, and a member of the Taylorsville United Methodist Church. He was

elected and served as the German Township Trustee for more than a decade.

Lawrence was a private man who enjoyed nature, and tending his land and animals. He was always quick to defend the rights of others, and was firm in his convictions to God and country. Lawrence shared these values and beliefs with his family that he loved dearly. His love was returned by his family, and they will deeply miss him.

Survivors include: daughter, Kim Taylor (Jami) of Columbus; and sons, Jack (Lori), Don (Rhonda), Jon, all of Columbus, and Gene of Elgin, IL; nine grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Norma, and eight siblings.

Due to constraints associated with COVID-19, there will be no public viewing. A private service will be held for members of the immediate family at Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home with burial following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross, or Our Hospice of South Central Indiana. Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the Fowler family at barkesweaverglick.com.