Obituary of William V Lawler

William V. Lawler ("Bill") passed away on Sunday, August 27, 2023. Bill was a long time resident of Darien and 95 years young at the time of his passing. Born in Queens, New York on December 23, 1927, he was the son of the late Bridie A. Lawler and Vincent J. Lawler. Bill was raised in the Ozone Park neighborhood of Queens, NY, he was the youngest of four children. He graduated from John Adams High School, where he played football and was quarterback of the team. Following in the footsteps of his father and uncle, Bill began his career in the printing industry starting at the New York Daily News as a photoengraver. He served in the Army during the Korean War from 1950-1952, was stationed in Germany, and he proudly served his country as his father did in WWI. After he returned from the service he continued his career in the printing industry where he remained until his retirement from Graphic Color Plate in Stamford, CT. Bill met the love of his life, Toni, many years earlier at Rockaway Beach. They were married for 56 years and moved to Darien in 1972, raising their son Billy together. Bill will be remembered fondly for his generous nature, hard work ethic, never give up attitude and big heart. Although not as talkative as his wife, Bill was never one to shy away from sharing his opinion and telling it like it was - whether you liked it or not. He was an avid Yankee and Giants fan; if nothing else was on he might sometimes even watch the Jets. Notre Dame football took center stage every Saturday in the fall. Bill was a big fan of UConn Men's (and Women's) basketball team, largely because he could relate to Geno Auriemma's attitude. Extremely proud of his Irish heritage, when he wasn't listening to Frank Sinatra or Tony Bennett, you could bet he was either playing the Clancy Brothers or the Irish Tenors. Bill was also known for his Whiskey Sours and Brandy Alexanders, and he enjoyed being the bartender for family and friends at the holidays. He will be deeply missed. As the Irish Blessing says, "And until we meet again may God hold you in the palm of his hand." Bill is survived by his sister Ann, son Billy, and his beloved granddaughter Kendall. In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his wife, Toni, and sisters, Sally and Pat. Visitation will be held at Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Post Road, Darien, CT, on Thursday, September 7th, from 4-7 p.m. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, September 8th, at 10 a.m. at St. Johns Roman Catholic Church in Darien, followed by interment at Spring Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Darien EMS-Post 53, P.O. Box 2066, Darien, CT 06820. For travel directions or to sign Bill's online guest register book, please visit www.LawrenceFuneralHome.com