Ann Marie (Schroeder) Lawton, 82, died peacefully on December 20, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was born to William and Wilhelmina Schroeder on October 31, 1941, she graduated from University High School in Lincoln in 1958.  She married Lawrence (Larry) Lawton on November 23, 1963, and they had three daughters: Sherry, Tracy, and Kristy.

Ann was a devoted wife and mother.  She worked multiple part-time jobs while the girls were young.  She then took a full-time job at LES as an administrative assistant where she worked until her retirement in 2014.

One of Ann's greatest joys was playing the organ at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church.  She began playing when she was 14 years old and after 68 years, she retired in October 2023.  She also served on the church council.  Ann volunteered as a Fire Phone Operator for the Pleasant Dale Fire Department.

She proudly graduated from Doane College in 2001, with a Business Administration degree. In her spare time, she enjoyed working in her flower beds, watching Nebraska sports, playing cards, and attending her granddaughter's sporting events.  She loved going for walks with their dog, Taffy, and on the weekends, she enjoyed spending time helping at her daughter's store.  It brought her joy talking to everyone and spending time with her family.

Survivors cherishing Ann's memory include her husband of 60 years, Larry Lawton; daughters, Sherry Lawton, Tracy (Brian) Peas, Kristy (Mike) Riley; grandchildren, Carmen (John) Rosenbalm, Morgan Peas, Logan Peas, Paige Riley; great-granddaughter, Estella Rosenbalm; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many extended relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Evelyn Reid.