James "Jim" Calvin Lawrence

Born July 9, 1944 in Springfield, Missouri to James W. and Bonnie L. (Kennemer) Lawrence, he married Ruth Darlene Storck on October 23, 1965 in Pekin. She survives.

Also surviving are one daughter, Cindy Lawrence Carr of Pekin; two grandsons, A.J. Carr of East Peoria and Jake Carr of Michigan; two sisters, Judy (John) Mahone of Florida and Kim (Paul) Baker of North Carolina and one brother, Kenneth (Leesa) Lawrence of Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Jimmy Lawrence and one brother, Bruce Lawrence.

Jim was a proud veteran of the United States Army Reserves.

He had worked at Caterpillar, Inc. for 30 years, before retiring in 1995. Following retirement, Jim worked at H & M Camper Sales in Pekin for ten years. He also worked many side jobs, including driving for Velde Ford Sales and Velde Cadillac.

Jim was also an official ceramic kiln repairman for many years, where he traveled all over serving the needs of his customers.

He was a charter member of the Jaytracker Camping Club in Pekin. He enjoyed camping with family and friends for many years. He was the go to guy if anyone needed their camper moved short or long distances.

Jim was also a lifetime member of the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G), where he was active in the local chapter for over 20 years. He had served all positions, including president. He has traveled over a million miles on his motorcycles, ranging from two wheels to eventually three and even having a sidecar at one point.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.

He lived and will live on for years to come.

His funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Marvin Claassen will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday evening at the funeral home. Cremation will be accorded following the services. Military rites will be provided by the United States Army and Tazewell Military Rites Team.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Children’s Hospital of Illinois, 124 Southwest Adams Street, Peoria, Illinois 61602, for the Jimmy Lawrence Memorial Fund.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com