May 1, 1939 – May 9, 2026
Lawrence Clarie Frowen passed away unexpectedly on May 9, 2026, just days after he celebrated his 87th birthday.
Born on May 1, 1939, Lawrence spent his childhood on Red River Road, where the door was always open to family and service members passing through town.
He received his education locally at Pine St School and Port Arthur Technical School.
His cherished car, a 1953 MGTD, stayed in his garage (and sometimes our basement) for all of our lives. It started as his everyday vehicle before he began a long restoration project that took nearly three decades to finish. Enjoying that process so much led him to buy a second car so he could work on one while driving the other. You could often spot him driving around town or participating in Cruise Nights and Vintage Car events along the north shore. The MG made a few trips to BC during its time with him.
Lawrence was one of the founding members of the Thunder Bay Autosport Club and spent many summers at rallies and gymkhanas and winters on ice with the IIRA.
He joined the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment in 1956 once he met the age requirement and remained active until 1968 when he was offered a promotion by the Colonel.
A founding member of the 2511 LSSR Army Cadet Corps, he returned as a rifle coach when Gordon became involved with the Corps.
Dad instilled a strong work ethic in his children. He taught us to do any job to the best of our ability and treat others with respect. From working at Shop – Easy to spending time at Elevators, Department of Highways, Thunder Bay Jail, Mac Millan Bloedel, Garden Lake Timber, Gerry’s Job Site Trailers, and finally Arnone Terminals-dad always put in maximum effort.
You could frequently find Lawrence working in the yard or tinkering away in his workshop or garage. Known as Mr. Fix-it by neighborhood kids, he often helped repair bikes or fix broken toys. It’s no surprise that becoming a grandfather brought him immense joy; watching his granddaughters grow was something he cherished deeply. He felt incredibly proud of who they became.
When not busy outdoors or fixing things up in his garage, he’d be relaxing at Tim Horton’s or cheering for his favorite Toronto Blue Jays on TV while enjoying a good western novel.
Lawrence is survived by his children Gordon (Diane) and Gwen (Warren), granddaughters Courtney (Travis), Tabitha (Andrew), Amber, along with great-grandchildren Lukas, Fiona, Bruce Wayne, Arlove and Ren. He also leaves behind brother Michael (Joyce), brother-in-law John Maryschak (Peggy), sister-in-law Mary Anne Palanio and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
He was predeceased by Trudy, his wife of 59 years; parents Violet and Clarence; as well as sisters Dorothy and Margaret.
The family wishes to thank the staff of 3C at St Joseph’s for their kindness during this time.
A Celebration of Life will happen on Friday June 5th ,2026 at 11:00 a. m., held at Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel located at 21 N. Court Street with Reverend Nancy Ringham officiating. Those who can’t attend can join via livestream at www. sargentandson. com.
If you’d like to make memorial donations instead of sending flowers please consider contributing to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Online condolences are available at www. sargentandson. com.
