Lawrence Robert Needham

Lawrence Robert NeedhamAugust 10, 1932- April 22, 2012Lawrence spent his childhood in Rhode Island, where he enjoyed many outdoor activities. His love of nature was reflected in his artwork. As a teenager he moved with his family to the San Gabriel Valley, where he followed his father into carpentry, which led him into a career in special effects for the movie studios. Larry worked on countless television and movie productions, most notably the ‘Jaws” movies. He liked to say “I spent 7 birthdays inside the belly of a shark.” When Larry retired he moved to Hemet, where he continued to create characters in his hobby of wood carving. He was an active member of the Ramona County Carvers, where he served as President for a number of years. He also enjoyed working in his garden, and going for long walks. Larry would accompany his wife Sharon to many social and cultural activities and also to Hemet Valley Baptist Church. He was actively involved in the Widowed Persons Association of California. Larry is preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Rhoda. Larry had a good sense of humor, and a live and let live outlook, he will be missed by many. He is survived by his wife Sharon Needham, his sister Claire Tetzlaff, and his children Vicky Mejia, Laurie LaRock, Lisa Renner, Vivien Kooper, Ray Campbell, Christopher Needham, Matthew Needham and 9 grandchildren. Funeral service will be at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, April 27, 2012 at McWane Family Funeral Home. Graveside service will follow at San Jacinto Valley Cemetery, 2555 Santa Fe., San Jacinto, Ca 92583. Entrusted to the care of McWane Family Funeral Home, 350 N. San Jacinto St., Hemet, Ca.