Veronica M. Lawrence

Veronica M. Lawrence, 91, former resident of Champaign, died on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at her home in Lindenhurst.

There will be a visitation on Friday, August 29 from 9-10 am in Feeney Hall at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1303 Lincolnshire Dr, Champaign. The funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 in the church. Burial will be at St. Bruno’s Catholic Cemetery in Pinckneyville, IL at 2:30pm. Owens Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Veronica was born on Nov 3, 1933, to Michael and Stella (Bielawska) Pioter. She married William Lawrence and they celebrated 52 years of marriage. He preceded her in death. Others who preceded her in death include her parents, 2 brothers,  Roman Pioter and Stanley Pioter; and 2 sisters, Mary Fischer and Lucielle Szarek. 

Surviving are her 5 children, Wm Michael Lawrence, Stephen (YeSuk) Lawrence, Teresa (William) Cira, Catherine (Robert) Kilbert and Cynthia (Robert) Olesen; 7 grandchildren, LeeAnna (Josiah) Thatcher, Elizabeth Kilbert, Andrew Cira, Victoria Cira, Rebecca (Daniel) Shelnut, Elizabeth Olesen, Thomas Olesen, and 2 great grandchildren, Brayden and Emma Thatcher. 

Veronica was a kind and giving caretaker. Her kitchen was always open and there was always space at her table for her children’s friends. She volunteered as a 4-H leader for over 40 years and for the Champaign County Home Extension. She offered childcare in her home for many young parents as well as the teachers at St. Matthew’s. She loved to crochet and sew, and she was an excellent gardener. Most recently, Veronica found she had a knack for playing BINGO and Bag-O, which she played (and often won!)in her retirement community. 

Memorials may be made to the Journey Care of Barrington, IL Hospice, The Village at Victory Lakes Resident Council Employee Holiday Fund (1075 E. Victory Dr. Lindenhurst, IL 60046) or Alzheimer’s Association.

 

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