Obituary for Terrence L. Lawless

Terrence Lawless, of Crystal Twp, Michigan, has passed away after a short battle with Leukemia. Terry was preceded in death by his parents Perry and Kate Lawless (Portland), his sister Kay, and his wife, Victoria.

Terry leaves behind his three children Ryan (Amy) Lawless, Nick (Brandi) Lawless and Mandy (Ryan) Johnston; step-children, Corey (Carrie) Sandborn, Carrie Sandborn, Stacey (Burt) Brown, and Daralyn (Cody) Clark - as well as NINETEEN grandchildren and one great granddaughter, all of whom he had a very special bond with. Terry was the luckiest man in the world to have found true love not once, but twice - first with Vicki (d. 2009) and again with Donalyn, with whom he lived out his dreams on the shores of Crystal Lake and around the world.

While in his younger years, Terry was known for his work ethic, in his later years he became known for being his grandchildren’s #1 fan! There was rarely a day of the week when he wasn’t at a concert, match, or a game. He loved celebrating his grandchildren and has a closet full of t-shirts to prove it. In the summer months, Terry could be seen on the lake, his shoulders shaking from laughter, as he whipped his favorite people around on the tube behind the boat. He loved every sunset and there was nothing better than taking a ride on the pontoon at the end of a long, fun day, a contented smile on his face.

In the off season, Terry could be found in The Keys - riding his bike from key to key, golfing, or fishing. He and Donalyn took trips to Italy, France, Iceland, Alaska, Vegas, Greece, Madeira Island, and several trips to Ireland, just to name a few. He really got the most out of his retirement and soaked up every minute.

Terry, even in his last days, was able to make those around him laugh, and when words would fail, hand motions worked! He always led with a generous and grateful heart and made everyone around him know how appreciated they were. He was a true kind spirit, and will be very missed as he leaves this earth and joins his loved ones in Heaven.

A Celebration of Terry's Life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 12-5 p.m. at the Grand River Conservation Club, 7345 Lyons Road, Portland. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wheatland Music Organization. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.