IT IS HARD to believe that I am speaking at Lawrence's funeral. His solid as a rock disposition and total dependability always made me feel that there was something indestructible about him. Lawrence would probably have approved of the way his life came to an end – no prolonged suffering and not being a burden on anyone. However for his family and many close friends who are left behind, it was much much too early. One makes very few close and unconditional friendships in a lifetime and, when they do exist, they are to be treasured. While I count my friendship with Lawrence as one of them, I have no doubt that there are a number of others who are here today who put themselves in that category. The reason is a simple one. Lawrence had a huge capacity to give of himself – generously, unstintingly and unconditionally. When he was needed, he was there and when something had to be done, it was done no frills, fanfare or ego – just total reliability and utter dependability. Friendships, no matter how close, often encounter crises in one form or another. However, in all the years that Barbara and I have enjoyed such a close relationship with Lawrence and Jackie, I cannot remember a single occasion in which we encountered friction in our relationship. Lawrence’s easygoing, likeable demeanor and nonconfrontational, non-judgmental relationship with his friends helped to ensure that this would not happen. Lawrence's absence will leave a huge void in many of our lives and, while we will take comfort from the memories of the countless good times we had together, he will be sorely missed.

LAWRENCE volunteered for ESRA MAGAZINE for many years. He was one of our area distributors, and would turn up at the office to collect his numerous bundles of magazines to distribute to our volunteer postmen in Raanana.

This tall, good-looking, strong and willing man was a vital cog in the distribution network.

For several years Lawrence was also our finance person on the magazine. After every magazine came out, Lawrence would call congratulating me on an outstanding magazine. I treasured his thoughtfulness and encouragement.

Lawrence also served a stint on the ESRA executive and fundraising committee, and chaired the media committee. We will miss you Lawrence and all that you did for ESRA and its magazine. Thank you – Merle Guttmann