December 25, 1949 – November 1, 2025
Gregory J. Lawton Sr., 75, of Pleasant Prairie, WI, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Hospice Alliance Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1949, the son of the late Jack and Dorothy (Felker) Lawton. On March 17, 1973, he married the love of his life, Maureen O’Brien. Greg and Maureen shared 52 wonderful years, building a beautiful life filled with laughter, family, and faith.
Greg was a gifted athlete, earning state tennis championships at Hinsdale Central before continuing to coach and teach tennis for 22 years, inspiring countless young athletes. He encouraged his children to grow not only as athletes but as kind, hardworking people, coaching soccer, football, baseball, and basketball along the way. No matter the activity, Greg was always their biggest supporter.
He dedicated 38 years to Central Steel Fabricators, earning deep respect for his integrity, work ethic, and steady leadership. A lifelong Hinsdale resident of nearly 60 years, Greg poured himself into his community, serving as President of Hinsdale Little League, Hinsdale Central Football Boosters, and Redeemer Lutheran Church. His faith, humility, and compassion guided every role he held. Together, Greg and Maureen led by example, instilling in their children a lasting commitment to service and community.
Greg found joy in life’s simple moments—golfing with friends, reading a mystery novel on the patio, or gathering with family. With his Willowcrest group, he cherished sunrise tee times and proudly celebrated two holes-in-one in the summer of 2000. His taste in music expanded over the years, though Motown always held a special place in his heart. He approached fantasy football with the same enthusiasm and competitive spirit that shaped so much of his life. Affectionately known as “Papa,” Greg lit up whenever his grandchildren entered the room and was their biggest fan, celebrating every game, performance, and milestone. Whether cheering from the sidelines or following along on his iPad via the GameChanger app, he never missed a chance to support them. Known for his sense of humor, his legendary “clipboard of fun” on family trips, and his unwavering devotion to those he loved, Greg leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wholehearted presence.
Greg is survived by his loving wife, Maureen; his four children, Gregory Lawton Jr (Hallie), Gretchen Lawton-Fulgencio (Jose), Alyssa Sigman, and Alexander Lawton (Lauren); his nine grandchildren, Keegan (Trinity) USMC, Savana, Rachel, Joseph (Brittany), Maggie, Paige (Jace), Brady, Carson, and Emmie Jean; three great-grandchildren, Sophia, Giovanni, and Liana; his siblings, Susan Kveton (Frank), Steve Lawton (Kathy), and Matthew Lawton (Cassandra); and many loving nieces and nephews.
Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother Jeffrey Lawton and son-in-law Michael Sigman.
Memorial visitation will be held at Proko Funeral Home on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. until the time of service at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations to Hospice Alliance in Pleasant Prairie, WI.
