Lawton, a skilled pilot who had his license in 1952, even before Princeton students were supposed to have cars at school, died Feb. 28, 2022. 

He was born Jan. 6, 1933, in New York City and attended Middlesex School in Concord, Mass., where he was active in football, hockey, and tennis.

At Princeton, he majored in economics, joined Ivy Club, played freshman hockey and tennis, and varsity tennis in his sophomore year. Senior year he roomed with Ted Rodgers, John Hurst ’54, and John Sienkiewicz. 

After two years in the Navy, Lawton began a lifelong career in investment banking. At Ingalls & Snyder he rose from general partner in 1970 to become senior managing director from 2000 to 2011. In addition to a lifelong devotion to flying, he was an avid fly fisherman, bird hunter, tennis player, and conservationist. He was a former president of the Anglers’ Club of New York and trustee of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. 

Lawton’s wife, Heather, said he was “both determined and cheerful, very gregarious. He was not a negative person in any way.” His daughter Storrs described him as “a true gentleman. He was known for his kindness and generosity.”

Lawton is survived by his wife of 59 years, Heather; daughter Storrs Cote; son Dana Lamb; four grandchildren; and brother Gordon ’52.

Class Year: 
Undergraduate Class of 1955