Lawrence (Larry) McLachlan

Lawrence “Larry” Osmond McLachlan III, known affectionately as LMak, passed away at the age 55 in Des Moines, Iowa, on July 13, 2024. He was born on February 4, 1969, in Hartford, Connecticut to Lawrence Osmond and Dorret June (Ortega) McLachlan Jr. 

The McLachlan family relocated to Urbandale, IA where Lawrence continued his education in the West Des Moines School System and graduated from Valley High School. Lawrence met and married Hilda and from that union, Lawrence Osmond McLachlan IV was born. He furthered his education at DMACC, obtaining an associate’s degree. Lawrence's commitment to serving his community reflected a spirit of dedication and selflessness. Lawrence will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and community he served diligently throughout life.

During his career, Lawrence made significant contributions as a Director of the Salvation Army for 10 years, and later worked with the city of Des Moines. He also dedicated his time to Mother Against Violence, working alongside the police force, mayor, and other prominent city leaders to make positive changes to the city’s youth. He was a board member of The Eddie Davis Community Center Inc. Lawrence sang with the Gospel Association Christian Academy School. He held various baseball and basketball camps for kids. A true Community Activist, Lawrence passionately advocated for positive change and touched the lives of many in need. He loved testifying the way God turned his life around and proudly passed that on to anyone he met. 

Those who knew Lawrence remember him as a fun-loving individual who always dressed to impress. His charming personality shown through in everything he did. In his leisure time, he enjoyed fantasy football, working out, singing, guiding troubled youth, photography, being on the radio station with Mav, kayaking, and cherished moments hanging out with his family.

Those left to cherish his loving memory are his parents Lawrence McLachlan Jr. and Dorret Orgeta; son Lawrence McLachlan IV; step daughters, Lasondra Graham and Amber Johnson; grandson, Harlow Parker Johnson; siblings Laverne Niles, Romona Ortega, and Richard Osmond McLachlin; host of nieces, nephews, and close friends. 

Lawrence was preceded in death by his grandparents Lawrence Sr. and Evedney McLachlan, Felix and Frances Ortega, America Edwards - Ortega, and John and Barbara Long.

Lawrence McLachlan leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and love that will continue to inspire all those whose lives he touched. As he always said, “2 things come first, God and serving humanity.” May he rest in peace.