Dennis F. Lawler, age 74, of Newark, DE passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, June14, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Born August 10, 1943 in Brooklyn, NY, Dennis was the son of the late Joseph and Margaret Lawler.

Dennis proudly served in the Army 1st Air Calvary during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1974. He went on to work for Chrysler where he dedicated 36 years until his retirement. Dennis also worked for the Red Lion Christian Academy for 15 years as a school bus driver. He began the tradition of having a water gun fight at the end of each school year; he truly loved the children and the school. He also owned and operated Park Deli for 15 years. Dennis was a good husband, great father, crazy grandfather and proud Irishman. He was a mentor for many children and was easy to communicate with even though he was soft spoken. He loved history and was a bit of a history buff; he was a reenactor for the First Delaware Regiment (DE Blue). He also loved antique cars, motorcycles and any type of chair. Dennis was known for being a practical joker who loved to make people smile. His most cherished time was spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 52 years, Susan Lawler; four children: Tracey Denofio and her husband, Michael, Kirsten Reburn and her husband, Michael, Brande Heitz and her husband, Jonathon and D.J. Lawler; eight grandchildren: Samanther, Madison, Mikey, Meagan, Dillon, Kayleigh, Mason and Alexandra; six siblings: Alfred Lawler, Robert Lawler, William Lawler, Jackie Lawler, Joan Corton and MaryAnn Sabatino. He is also survived by his beloved grand-dogs, Jackson and Maggie.

A special thank you to the nurses and staff at Vitas Hospice especially Theresa and Darianna.

A visitation will be held from 6PM to 8PM on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 at R.T. Foard & Jones Funeral Home, 122 W. Main St., Newark, DE 19711. A service will be held in Dennis’ honor at 9AM on Wednesday, June 20, 2018 at the funeral home. Burial will follow the services at Delaware Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made payable to the “Wounded Warrior Project” or to the “ALS Hope Foundation” through Temple University and sent in care of the funeral home.