Evelyn Ilene Lawson

Evelyn Ilene Walker Lawson, age 95 of Rockvale, formerly of Wetmore, was born on January 1, 1926 in Englewood, Kansas and transcended her earthly body at home on January 9, 2021 following a long, hard-fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease.  By her side caring for her were her daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Eric Bellas; granddaughter, Faith and niece, Dawn Walker McWilliams.

Evelyn came to Colorado from Oklahoma in a covered wagon with her parents and siblings when she was only nine years old and worked as a telephone switchboard operator in Pueblo in her late teens.

Residing in Wetmore in her earlier years, Evelyn was a hard-working Ranch, 4-H and rodeo Mom. She kept her children in starched shirts and jeans for rodeos every weekend and sparkling clean uniforms for playing sports at Florence High School. She worked tirelessly at the State Fair, County Fair and Stock Show every year to make it possible for all of her children to enjoy the privilege of experiencing these special events.

Evelyn was an excellent cook and had lots to do feeding all the family and ranch hands.  She loved to travel and treasured her trip to Maui with son, Virgil Lee and best friend, Jean. Jean and her lifetime friend, Lucille, accompanied Evelyn on several Caribbean cruises and bus trips across the country.

Evelyn’s favorite pastime was dancing to country western music at the Mellow Moon, Silver Saddle and Elks Club. After Parkinson’s took her mobility, she enjoyed listening to music and watching others dance on the Mollie B. Polka Party on RFD TV.

Evelyn was fiercely loyal and a trustworthy confidant. Others came to her to seek comfort which she always willingly provided.  Many confided in her and their secrets were safe with Evelyn.

Evelyn prayed for everyone every night.  Her family meant the world to her and she was always available to help them in any way, be it babysitting, providing a shoulder to cry on, or just listening and giving advice when asked. But she was never one to interfere or drop in unexpectedly. She let her children live their lives independently but cherished visits from her children and grandchildren. Evelyn was the most selfless and kind person, and anyone who chose to be in her orbit was wise and blessed indeed.

Evelyn’s parents Marshall and Elsie Walker, sister Wanda Meigs and brothers Junior, Donnie and Earl Walker passed before her. She missed her other Mom Mary, her other sister and brother Lavahn and Elton, and dear friends Lois “Wo” and Loren who also left this earth before her. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by her sister Ella Lloyd, brother Jim Walker, and “little sister” Paula Walker who survive. Evelyn leaves behind children Virgil Lee, Randy, Rick and Cindy, numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and many special friends.

Evelyn’s family would like to thank Compassus Hospice for their comforting services.

Funeral services for Evelyn will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Wilson Funeral Home, 1449 South 9th St., Canon City Colorado. Pastor Doyle Larkin will officiate. Burial will follow at Union Highland Cemetery in Florence, Colorado.  Holt Family Funeral Home handled the arrangements.  The funeral service will be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person. To watch go to youtube.com then search for Holt Family Funeral Livestream.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163 Federal Tax ID Number: 13-4141945.

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