To the family and to Bill's co-workers,
I was employed by CeramPhysics back in the mid eighties.  I had a wonderful work experience and gained so much knowledge working for them.  Of all things, I learned how to use a word processor and the computer!  I am thankful for that and for the opportunity to attend OSU and still be employed by them.  Bill believed in education and greatly supported me!  I will forever be grateful to him and Fred!  I am very sorry for your loss and will have the family in my prayers!

Lisa (Wiseman) Reinstetle

To the Lawless Family:

I had the pleasure of meeting Bill a few years after joining the Materials Science and Engineering Department at The Ohio State University. I drove out to Ceramphysics for a face-to-face meeting with Bill and Fred. My first impressions of Bill persisted throughout our collaborations. What impressed me was the organized way in which he presented the scientific issues at hand. He always paused after making an insightful statement, made eye contact with me, and let the thought sink in before he proceeded to the next point. His methodical way of interacting showed that he was investing in you step by step, and this would be the grounds for a fruitful relationship.

My visits to Ceramphysics had a sense of humor. I will always remember the signs posted on the doors to prospective salespeople. The outer door held a statement to the effect that if you were a salesperson visiting Ceramphysics, stop now and turn around. Should a salesperson venture further into the building, a second sign informed them that they certainly had failed the test. That second sign made me smile whenever I visited, and I knew it reflected Bill's desire to have substantive discussions.

I know that Bill enabled many people in Columbus and well beyond to apply their scientific skill in productive ways. Working with him was fun, creative, and informative. His style was a key ingredient to the success of Ceramphysics, and I am inspired by it.

With sincere condolences,

Peter M. Anderson, Prof.
The Ohio State University

Denise,
    We are sharing lunch in Corning and we read about your Dad. We are so sorry for your loss and remember your Dad from our many sleepovers. We think about you often and wonder where your life has lead you. Anne lives in Corning and Gretchen in Skaneateales but we still get together. Our best to your sisters.

Gretchen Lapp Hamlin
Anne Helm Galvin

Nancy:

I wanted you to know how sorry I was to hear the news of Bill's passing.  Bill was a true friend and I am proud to have been considered a colleague of his.  Bill was my mentor in the early part of my career, dating back to when I was in college in the late 70's and early 80's.  He tought me the value of hard work and instilled in me a passion for technical excellence and scientific accomplishment.  We co-authored a number of journal articles and collaborated on numerous projects over the years.  I will remember fondly our technical (and non-technical) discussions.

Nance, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
                            Barb and Lou

Bill was my next door neighbor at the Hideaway Townhouse Apartments and it was always a treat when he knocked on my door, no matter the time of day (or night) and wanted to show me his latest creation in his basement...my favorites were the "ball in the box" and the "lady" on a ship.  I always enjoyed our conversations.  Sadly I lost contact after I moved but thought of him often.  Go in Peace my friend.  Bill Wells

Ray and I will always remember our visits with the family in Ohio and remembering the good times.  Bill always enjoyed talking about Corning and what was happening there.  He will be missed

OBITUARY

William N. Lawless

September 15, 1936 – December 25, 2009

Schoedinger Midtown

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