Born in Omaha, NE April 28, 1932, he was adopted at the age of four months from the Nebraska Childrens Home Society by George and Nellie Lawson of Superior, NE. He was raised in Superior and graduated from Superior High School in 1949. After completing his freshmen year at the University of Nebraska he enlisted in the US Marine Corps and served on active duty for fourteen months, achieving the rank of Corporal. He then returned to the university and received his B.M.E. degree in 1954. Following three years teaching in the public schools of Auburn, NE and Shenandoah, IA he was invited to enter the doctoral program at the State University of Iowa. In addition to his academic studies he taught classes at University High School, and was the founding director of the Old Gold Singers, a popular choral ensemble sponsored jointly by the SUI Alumni Association and the Department of Music. Following the receipt of his Doctor of Philosophy Degree in the summer of 1960, he joined the faculty of San Fernando Valley State College,later to become the California State University Northridge. He remained on the faculty until his retirement in 1994. Gerald is preceded in death by his parents, and by the love of his life,his beloved wife Marjorie. Survivors include his three daughters: Pamela Spaccarotella of Millard, NE,Deborah Dean of W. Des Moines, IA, Teresa Shaffer of W. Des Moines, IA; his adopted son John Richard Lawson of Glendale, CA; and 12 grandchildren Services will be private.
