Tronie Lawrence

Tronie Bruce Lawrence, 81, of Clayton, Indiana, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Monday, June 22, 2026.

Born on November 28, 1944, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Tronie was the son of the late Frank and Barbara (Edmonson) Lawrence. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Dennis Lawrence.

As the oldest of five children, Tronie enjoyed the simple pleasures of country life. As a young man, he loved hunting rabbits and squirrels and spending time fishing. His hunting trips often provided dinner for the family, reflecting the practical and resourceful way he was raised. In later years, he looked forward to his yearly fishing trip with friends, found enjoyment on the golf course and at the bowling alley, where he built many lasting friendships.

His unique first name carried a story he enjoyed sharing. His father named him after a coworker from Bridgeport Brass who had told him the name was a combination of family names and likely one of a kind. Years later, while bowling, a man approached Tronie after seeing his name on a bowling shirt and remarked that he had only ever known one other person named Tronie—his father. When Tronie asked if his father had worked at Bridgeport Brass, the man replied that he had, bringing the story full circle in a memorable and unlikely reunion.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Tronie honorably served his country during two tours in Vietnam. His military service remained one of the accomplishments he valued most throughout his life. He was a dedicated member of the American Legion Post 118 and served for many years as the head of the Honor Guard, paying tribute to fellow veterans with dignity, respect, and unwavering commitment.

After completing his military service, Tronie built a successful career in technology. He worked as a programmer for IBM, where he spent many years before retiring. He later continued his career with MAPICS, working in Ohio and Georgia before eventually retiring a second time. Wherever life and work took him, family remained a priority. He faithfully returned to Indiana for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings, cherishing time spent with those he loved.

After moving back home to Indiana, one of Tronie's favorite traditions was meeting his sister and cousins for breakfast every Sunday at Goody's Restaurant in Plainfield. These weekly gatherings became treasured moments filled with conversation, laughter, and the enduring bonds of family.

Those who knew Tronie will remember him as a straight shooter—honest, genuine, and never afraid to share his opinion. He was friendly, loyal, and deeply authentic, qualities that earned him many lifelong friends. Whether among family, fellow veterans, bowling teammates, or friends from the American Legion, Tronie was respected for being exactly who he was.

Tronie is survived by his siblings, Sherry (Ray) Shannon, Lisa (Dale) Chadwick, and Greg (Susie) Lawrence; his nieces and nephews; and many dear friends from the American Legion who will miss his friendship, leadership, and companionship.

Tronie's life was defined by service, hard work, family, and friendship. He leaves behind a legacy of honor, integrity, and devotion to those he loved. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Amo Cemetery in Amo, Indiana. Immediately following the graveside service, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life at American Legion Post 118 in Danville, Indiana.