Obituary of Alberta Lawton

Alberta Madelina Lawton went to be with Jesus surrounded by family in Rancho Bernardo, California, November 27, 2019, at 92 years old.

Born September 1, 1927, to Joe and Angelina Bertino in Upland, California, Alberta grew up in Ontario with her two younger brothers, Joseph and Maurice. After graduating from Chaffey High School and College, she moved to San Diego, where she caught the eye of Navy Quartermaster, Lee Lawton Jr. With her vivacious personality, perhaps it couldn't be helped that just eight weeks after meeting, she and Lee were married in St. Johns Church, May 2, 1954. Alberta held a range of jobs over the years, such as a surveyor, accountant for the San Diego Bus Company, and store-clerk at Alpha Beta. But, she thrived as the loving, adventurous mother of her and Lee's three children, Mike, Gary, and Nancy. Whether it was Mike's quartet singing, Gary's sermons as a pastor, or Nancy's high school swim meets, Alberta supported and encouraged each of her kids in their talents and goals throughout her life. As a wife, she was a marvelous homemaker and true partner in adventure, as she Lee frequently traveled. In 1998, they renewed their vows in front of friends and family, and together, they provided an example of committed love until Lee's passing in 2001. She kept up an energetic life and was involved in many endeavors including the Republican Women's Club, the Red Hat Society, Women’s Bible Studies, CCT’s Senior Follies and danced regularly at the Elks Club. It was there she met her second husband, Joe Max, whom she married on June 21, 2013. Together, they danced with their many friends, and enjoyed marriage until he passed August 18, 2018. 

Whether it was her Italian heritage or her God-given gusto for life, Alberta was notably adventurous. An avid dancer, she could execute anything from a smooth foxtrot to a mean time-step, and she also shined bright as a skilled skier and even a proficient violinist. Her fervor for life reflected in her joyful demeanor and ability to make a friend wherever she went. Whether it was taking center stage with her tap troupe, The Happy Hoofers, organizing frequent camping trips for her family, or boogie boarding into her late 80's, she never lost her zest for truly living life. Alberta was a true matriarch, presenting a life that was characterized by her strong love for the Lord and the ability to bring His peace into any situation. She exuded what it meant to be a mother, a grandmother, a wife, and a sincere friend. Her family will always remember her as a woman of faith, an example of godly character, and a joyful heart with a spunky spirit. Alberta Madelina Lawton always did love a good party, and her family is deeply grateful that she has arrived at the best party of all—dancing with Jesus!

She is survived by her three children and their spouses, Mike and Denise Lawton, Gary and Martha Lawton, and Nancy and Dan Foley, as well as her eight grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. 

For those who wish to celebrate Alberta's life, her service will be held:

Date: Friday, January 3, 2020

Time: 1:30 - 4:00 pm

Place: Calvary Chapel Santee

10920 Summit Ave. Santee, CA 92071

In lieu of flowers, send a check donation to TERI, Inc. 251 Airport Road, Oceanside, CA 92058

Write “In honor of Alberta Lawton” in the memo.

Directions to Calvary Chapel Santee

From West:

I 8 East to 67 North, exit and turn left on Prospect Ave, turn right on to North Magnolia Ave. (3 miles) turn left on Princess Joann Rd., Right on Summit Ave.
From North:
I 15 South to 52 East, exit and turn left onto North Magnolia Ave. (3 miles) turn left on Princess Joann Rd., Right on Summit Ave.

From East:

I 8 West to 67 North, exit and turn left on Prospect Ave, turn right on to North Magnolia Ave. (3 miles) turn left on Princess Joann Rd., Right on Summit Ave.

For questions call or email: Mike: 619-993-750, mikelawton@roadrunner.com; Gary: 760-415- 8540, gary@ccsantee.com; Nancy: 619-884-8226, nancyfoleykw@gmail.com