A memorial for Kevin David Lawrence, the miner killed in a collapse in Park County, will be Saturday at 2 p.m. at Mountain View Community Church at 3939 W. Florida Ave. in Denver, his family said today.
His body was recovered from his mine claim near Alma last weekend, more than a week after his younger brother found Lawrence, 51, partially buried in the ruble inside the mine.
The recovery was slowed by the high, steep terrain of the mine and concerns over the stability of the mine shaft, authorities said last week.
“Special Thanks to everyone involved in rescue and recovery of Kevin,” his family said in a statement this afternoon. “Our prayers will be with you always.”
Born in Delta, Lawrence had a home in Leadville but lived in the mine while he worked there looking for gold and silver.
“Growing up with Kevin revealed the true artist, charmer and peacemaker that we all strive to be,” his family stated.
“His fortitude earned him a black belt (in martial arts), and his education earned him an associate’s degree. Kevin traveled as much as he could digging for gems and minerals.
“He wanted everyone to feel the the excitement and fun of finding their own special rock in the world. He was always inviting someone new to take rock hunting. He was very giving of himself, and tried to take care of everyone he knew in anyway he could. The mine that took him is a big example, from the people he wanted to hire, to the friends and family he wanted to help with the profits. Remember the charm, devotion and dedication of our brother who left us too soon. He will be missed by all that knew him.”
Lawrence is survived his mother, Mary Helen Edgeman of Leadville and Dade City, Fla., father, Larry Arnold Lawrence of Kearny, Ariz. Brothers Jeff Lawrence of Clear Lake, Calif. and Brad Lawrence of Leadville; sisters Cynthia Myers of Odgen, Utah, and Suzanne Smith of Denver; as well as several step-siblings.
