Garth William Lawless "Bill"

Lawless, G. William, “Bill”. If you are reading this from the obituary, be advised that the soul of the author has passed into eternity. What does it mean if you are asked to write your own obituary? Is it that those asking cannot think of anything to say about you? Not even a little white one? More to the point what if it’s your own family that’s asking… and to think I could have suggested some things. Next time around I will have to be more active.

The soul of Garth William Lawless, died or passed away if you prefer on Wednesday September 23, 2026. “Bill” was born on February 12, 1934. He was the son of Helen Lawless who passed away when Bill was in the 2nd grade. He was raised by two loving aunts, Margaret and Clara (Ted) and an equally loving uncle Matt. As for the cause of death- Bill was in his 90’s so pick one. As for lifetime achievements…there was one! In 1965 he married Jackie Kuhn and lived happily ever after. Their wonderful children run a close second. So what goes into an obituary…other than the fact of death and the date fulfilled what really matters? That you have done anything might be a surprise to many. So, on the one hand “why bother.” That’s all I can say for now. There probably will not be anything later either.

Bill was born in Ironton, Ohio, and moved to Dayton to attend the University of Dayton, where he earned a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. A devoted Dayton Flyers fan, he held season tickets for both football and basketball. After his children were grown, he returned to school and earned master's degrees in engineering, theology, and philosophy. He also purchased a park for peace, picnics, and recreation, which he enjoyed sharing with his wife, friends, and German Shepherds.

Bill was a fan of opera, philharmonics, and theater which he shared his passion for with his wife. He shared his enthusiasm for poker with his UD colleagues, children and grandchildren. In recent years, Bill and Jackie spent Saturday mornings with friends at the Second Street Market and gathered with retired University of Dayton faculty on the first Monday of each month.

Bill is preceded in death by a son, Michael. He is survived by a loving wife, Jackie; a daughter and son-in-law, Catherine “Katie” Lawless (Geoff) Frank; two sons, Matthew (Laura), Daniel; a daughter-in-law, Jenny, and six grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial, 11:00 am Thursday October 1 at St. Charles Borromeo Church. The family will receive friends Thursday from 10:00-11:00 am at the church. Arrangements by the Westbrock Funeral Home, Kettering. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ironton Catholic School System (912 S. 6th St, Ironton, OH 45638) or University of Dayton Garth William Lawless Scholarship fund.