Lawson Charles Schmelzle, 16, of Seneca, died on Monday, September 6, 2021, as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.

Lawson was welcomed into this world by his loving parents, Norman and Zena Kennedy Schmelzle on May 18, 2005, in San Diego, California.

Lawson grew up in the Seneca community, and was a Junior at Nemaha Central High School, Class of 2023. He was a percussionist in the school band and a member of the high school golf team.

Lawson enjoyed fishing, hunting, and riding around with friends. He spent every summer golfing and playing baseball in Kelly. Lawson was known for doing backflips off anything, and always said “I just want to have fun”. Lawson had a deep appreciation for music, knew all the words to songs of every genre and era, and was a self-taught drummer who played by ear. Always carrying drum sticks, you would find him drumming on everything.

Most importantly, Lawson loved being around family and friends, and cherished the time they spent together. He had a lot of bonus moms to whom he would shout out a “Hi, Mom,” followed by a hug! He was always on the lookout for a good scare. He loved to spend his hard-earned money on Dr. Pepper and cookies. Lawson could talk to anyone, and he will continue to stay with those who knew him through shared laughter and memories.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict.

Lawson is survived by his parents, Norman and Zena Kennedy Schmelzle of Seneca; siblings, Emmery, Grady and Rylee Schmelzle, all of the home; grandparents, Larry and Sharon Schmelzle of Oneida and Charles Kennedy of Holton; many aunts and uncles, and 44 first cousins.

Lawson was preceded in death by his grandmother, Virginia Kennedy on March 27, 2001.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Friday, September 10, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:00 AM Saturday, September 11th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. Burial will be at Sts. Peter and Paul’s Cemetery in Seneca.

Memorials will be designated for the percussion section of the Nemaha Central High School Band and Kelly Ball Association.

To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .