Lawrence George Cox, 89, longtime resident of Fredonia, died Friday, March 2, 2012 at Golden Living Center in Neodesha. He was born Jan. 17, 1923 in Fredonia, the son of George H. and Ila D. Forbes Cox. Lawrence was a 1943 graduate of Wellington High School. Following graduation, Lawrence served in the United States Army as a Staff Sergeant, March 29, 1943 to January 31, 1946.

On July 30, 1943 in Champaign, Illi., Lawrence was united in marriage to Colleene Gasper. She preceded him in death March 16, 2009.

Lawrence and bother Donald owned and operated Cox 66 Service and Café in Fredonia, retiring after 43 years in business.

He was a member of the First Christian Church in Fredonia

Lawrence’s survivors include a son, Lawrence “Butch” Cox, Fredonia; a brother, Donald Cox, Chanute; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren: Austin Farmer, Tori Cox and Thatcher Cox.

He was preceded in death by a son, Gary Joe Cox.

Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 7 at the Fredonia City Cemetery. The Kansas National Guard Honor Guard will conduct military rites. A memorial has been established in Lawrence’s name with the First Christian Church and contributions can be sent to Timmons Funeral Home, PO Box 168, Fredonia, KS, 66736. Words of condolence for the family may be sent to www.timmonsfuneralhome.com