1948
2015
VAUGHN "VJ" RAWSON
Mason
Vaughn "VJ" Rawson was born on Christmas Eve, December 24,
1948, to Gert and Ted Rawson, in Charlotte MI.
He died at home from prostate cancer on January 8th 2015,
surrounded by his wife, pets, family and friends.
VJ is survived by his wife of 39 years,
Stephanie (Mitchell) and his sister Jo (Rawson) McCausey.
Vaughn honorably served in the US Army and was a
Viet Nam combat wounded veteran. He was a 1st Lieutenant
serving in both the 82nd and 101st Airborne Infantry.
A former state Dept. of Mental Health employee,
Vaughn along with his wife, spent the last 25 years of his career
as a full-time woodcarver known as The Whimsical Whittler.
Carving Christmas figures was his passion and
he was proud of the following he had and the Christmas memories
he created for hundreds of people.
A Memorial Service will be held 11am Saturday, January 24,
at St. James Catholic Church, 1010 S. Lansing, Mason, MI.
There will be a visitation one hour prior.
The family welcomes all after the service
to continue the celebration of this beloved man
with food, laughter and memories.
In lieu of flowers, it was Vaughn's wish that those desiring,
make contributions to the Ingham County Animal Shelter,
600 Curtis Road, Mason, MI 48854.
The family is being served by the
Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Mason, MI.
On-line condolences & memories may be shared
with the family at www.grbdmason.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
November 19, 2015
Bill Whamond
I served closely with VJ in 1970-71 in Co C, 1st Bn/505th PIR, 82d Airborne Division. When VJ got orders to Viet Nam, i took command of his platoon. VJ was an excellent soldier and leader. I'm a better man for having known him.
March 1, 2015
Mary Ann Patterson
Jim and I were saddened to hear the news of Vaughn's passing. We have missed seeing you the past few years and only recently found out he was ill. He was a talented carver and we treasure each those beautiful santas. Little did we know that before his "crafter life" he was a brave soldier and an American hero. It was an honor to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
January 29, 2015
Jill Motovidlak
I'm so sorry to learn of Vaughn's passing. I first "discovered" him while flipping through a magazine about 15 years ago. At the time, I wanted to learn to carve, but was too intimidated. Then I saw his work and couldn't get it out of my mind. What an inspiration both he and his wife were! I emailed him with questions about how to carve and was so surprised when he took the time to write back! He encouraged me to try and with that first step 15 years later I'm still at it. He'd never remember me or realize what a simple email meant, but I'll never forget him. - Jill Motovidlak
January 26, 2015
I had the pleasure of serving in the Army at Ft. Benning, GA, with VJ in the early 70's, soon after he returned to the States from Vietnam. We were assigned to the Infantry School and worked side-by-side for several years and became very close friends. He was full of wit and energy and his sense of humor kept everybody in our office laughing throughout the day. His impersonation of the Pink Panther was classical. Everybody liked VJ. On several occasions he accompanied me to North Carolina to visit my parents and he eventually became a "second son" to them. He never let the injuries he received in Vietnam slow him down and I don't remember ever hearing him complain. While his combat wounds were still healing he developed an interest in dirt-bike racing and we travelled throughout Alabama and Georgia to compete in cross-country motorcycle races. We also enjoyed smoking our pipes. VJ and I lost touch with each other after our Ft. Benning days but I never forgot him. How can anybody forget VJ? We reconnected about five years ago and had many enjoyable telephone conversations, the last one being on Tuesday before he passed away on Thrusday. Even though 43 years have passed since I last saw my friend VJ, just knowing that he is gone has left an enormous emptiness in my heart. I am thankful for his friendship and for the many fun times we had together. I feel honored to be able to call VJ Rawson my friend and I will always cherish the memories I have of him.
Steph, I share your loss and want to extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I regret that I was unable to attend the service but I was thinking about you and VJ this past Saturday morning.
William R. (Bill) Thompson
LTC-IN-USAR
Maggie Valley, NC
January 20, 2015
I was proud to know VJ as a fellow Vietnam veteran and a colleague at GMC. I was aware that he was severely wounded in Vietnam. Good and brave people like VJ will always be remembered.David N Gibbs Athens,Georgia
January 20, 2015
Charles Everett
I knew V.J. at GMC, we attended IOBC at Ft. Benning together. I remember he went indefinite with the Army for Air Borne School, Rangers and being assigned to the 82nd. He then was going to Vietnam. The last time I had the opportunity to see him was at the officers club at Ft. Bragg. He was a great person. I am so sad to hear of your loss.
January 18, 2015
Ron Starr
My sincere condolences. V. J. was my friend and a man that I admired for his courage, competence and loyalty. His service to country caused him life long difficulties that were known to few because there were no complaints. He had a remarkable sense of duty blended with an equally remarkable sense of humor. This world has lost a good man and a good soldier. I pray that he is at peace in the arms of the Surpreme Commander.
January 17, 2015
Gloria Hamilton
My sincere condolences to the family. I met you both at Kean's years ago when I purchased my treasured Santa, still a favorite in my collection. What a talented man he was. I'm so very sad to hear the news of his passing, my prayers are with you.
January 17, 2015
Maj. Robert M Traxler USA Ret.
If you love the man VJ became you should of known him during the building phase. Those of us who grew from young men into soldiers along side him will never forget him, we will always love him and always respect him. VJ was a brother in arms, a brave Paratrooper and a fine Army 0fficer an outstanding cadet and a true American hero.
Do not morn his passing but thank god each and every day outstanding Americans like VJ ever lived. He will always be in the harts of those of us shared our youth with him.
January 14, 2015
bill and dolores mason
Stephanie, our hearts are heavy learning of the loss of VJ.We will always remember a visit to your home and how warm and welcoming you both were. VJ had a wonderful talent and he will be missed by many. May God comfort you in your sorrow.
January 14, 2015
Teresa Kogut
So sorry to hear this news. Prayers for you Stephanie. I met you and Vaughn at Market Square back in the mid 90s. I was fortunate enough to purchase two of your original works of art. I put those Santas out every Christmas on my kitchen window sill so I can see them every day. What a great loss.
January 14, 2015
David Schump
While I never had the opportunity to meet Vaughn in person I did get to email and chat with him. We shared our passions for our crafts and I could tell he was a very good man with a warm and loving soul. He seemed to love my work and I his and was so extremely encouraging as I am just starting out.
My deepest sympathies at his passing and my thoughts go out to you (Stephanie) and all your family and friends. Physically he has left us but I truly believe that he lives inside all those whom he loved and touched....especially his family. If there is anything I can do it would be my honor to do so!
January 13, 2015
Mike Snyder
What shock and sorrow to read of the passing of an old friend. VJ was great at encouraging folks to strive for there best. Thoughts and prayers to Stephanie and the family
January 13, 2015
Rebecca Hirsch
I know I have only met Uncle VJ twice, but I enjoyed the little bit of time I was able to spend with him. Travis has always looked up to him, and he loved being able to talk to Uncle VJ about the Military. Being able to get up there for Christmas this past year was such a blessing. Uncle VJ was so funny at the table. I loved his sense of humor, and I wish I would have gotten to know him better. You will be missed, and Aunt Stephanie I know he is always going to be there in spirit.
January 13, 2015
Don Kill
Stephanie So sorry to hear about your loss. He will be remembered as a great guy, with a great talent. Always had a good time talking to him when we were together.
January 12, 2015
Joyce Hoedeman
Stephanie, I'm so sorry for your loss. Remember me helping Vaughn with his drumming after he got the field drum? And we found out we were both from Charlotte and knew some of the same people. I've kind of lost touch with people from the orchestra, but still go to some of the concerts when they're local...
January 12, 2015
We will always remember you as a very special uncle who wore great hats and always had time to tell us stories. We loved the tours you would give us of your workshop and your room filled with war things. We will always remember your chuckle, you calling us "kiddo" and the sacrifice you made to keep us free in America. We love you and will miss you. Your nieces, Victoria and Veronica
January 10, 2015
Chatter & Carl Stockfleth
Dear Stephanie,
Our hearts are aching for your loss. We were so sad to hear of Vaughn's passing. He was one remarkable man and so kind and SO TALENTED!!! We know he was the LOVE of your life and we cannot imagine the pain you are feeling. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family as you go through this very difficult time. Sending our love and prayers your way. He was taken much too soon. We will cherish the memories we have of Vaughn and cherish our wonderful carvings by the two of you. Love, Chatter & Carl
Showing 1 - 18 of 18 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more