Sept. 26, 1944 — March 5, 2025
Lawrence David Nagel passed away peacefully at Ashland Sky Senior Home in Ashland on March 5. He was surrounded by loved ones, with a view of Grizzly Peak outside his window — a view he enjoyed from his own home for over 35 years.
Born in Salem, Oregon, in 1944, Lawrence moved with his parents, Don and Jane, to Florida before returning west, eventually settling in Longview, Washington, where his three brothers, Cameron, Brian, and Andrew, were born. The family lived there until 1961, when Don’s job temporarily relocated them to Downers Grove, Illinois, where Lawrence graduated high school in 1962.
Lawrence’s lifelong passion for travel and discovery was evident when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1964. His language skills took him to various destinations worldwide, including Turkey, where he returned several times throughout his life. Following military service, his interest in the Middle East and literature led him to Portland State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in library science from the University of Oregon.
After exploring various career paths, Lawrence joined Midwest Library Service, settling in Marin County, California. As a regional manager for 30 years, he traveled to universities and public libraries across the Western U.S., fostering relationships with library faculty and staff. While dedicated to his work, Lawrence always made time to explore nature, cultivating a deep love for outdoor recreation and environmental conservation. He met his former wife Connie Anderson in 1981, they wed in 1983 and were married for 14 years. In 1988, Lawrence and Connie moved to Ashland, where they built a home and started a family. Their son, Alex, was born in 1991.
Lawrence and Alex shared a deep bond, embarking on many adventures together over the years. Their outings included skiing nearly every weekend during the winter and cheering on Alex at his sports events. Their travel took them to Italy, Spain, Peru, the Galápagos Islands, Colombia and more. Lawrence was, above all, a loving and dedicated father.
He embraced retirement or — as he liked to call it, “relaxation” — beginning in 2008, and spent his time traveling, riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle with his Wild Turkeys crew, writing for and contributing to regional environmental publications and volunteering with local conservation organizations. Lawrence was a fixture in the community, especially at the Ashland Food Co-op, where he will be remembered for his kindness, goofy energy and sincere desire to connect with people from all walks of life.
Although Lawrence’s health began to decline in early 2024, he remained optimistic, focusing on spending time with Alex, his fiancée Riley, and their daughter Lily, born in October 2024. Becoming a grandfather was a profoundly meaningful experience for Lawrence, and his smile always brightened the room whenever he got to interact with Lily. Lawrence will be deeply missed, but the legacy of his love, generosity and gentle spirit will continue to live on through his family, friends and community.
Lawrence is survived by his son, Alex (Riley); his brothers, Cameron (Nancy), Brian (Lynda), and Andrew (Joanne); his nephews, Ryan (Laura) and Zack; his granddaughter, Lily; and his grandniece, Olivia.
A celebration of life will be held in Ashland on June 1. Please email nagel@mind.net for more details. Memorial contributions can be made to Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center or a charity of your choice.
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