Rebecca M. Lawson, 70, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 21, 2019 from complications resulting from a previous stroke and most recently cancer. Born in Sheldon, IA on October 16, 1948 she is survived by her husband, Larry Lawson of almost 40 years as well as her two daughters, Meredith Norrie and husband Ben, Morgan L Lawson and Ted Klein; and her sister Jan Merrill Plunkett and husband Dave. She is preceded in death by her father Freeman G Merrill and mother Virginia Mae Williams Merrill. Rebecca was a 6th grade teacher early in her career and later became a media specialist serving both Burnsville and Bloomington school districts. Her career lasted until her untimely stroke in 1999. She was a graduate of Sheldon High School class of 1966, later graduating with a B.S. from Minnesota State Mankato in 1969 and later earning her Masters there in 1976. Long known for her positive outlook on life and her clever sense of humor, she will be remembered for her incredible strength and wit. The funeral will be held at the Colonial Church in Edina, MN on Tuesday, February 26th, with visitation between 9:30 AM - 11:00AM. Funeral Service celebrating Rebecca’s life will be held at 11:00 AM. Rebecca will be interred in Sheldon Iowa. A Visitation will be held on Wednesday (2/27) from 4-7 PM at the Vander Ploeg Funeral Home, 724 6th Ave., Sheldon, IA., a burial at East Lawn Cemetery in Sheldon to follow on Thursday. In lieu of sending flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society and/or the American Heart Association.