LAURA J. (GETZ, LARSEN) HAWKINS, 76 SOUTH HOUSTON, Texas - Laura J. (Getz, Larsen) Hawkins, 76, passed away quietly on Wednesday, October 23, 2013, in Houston, Texas. Laura was born on January 14, 1937, in Savanna, Illinois to George and Edna Getz. She graduated from Savanna high school in 1955. She was a 5 time cancer survivor. Her motto was, "I have things to do, I do not have time to be sick". Laura was very active in her community, wherever she lived. Laura delivered meals, ran an emotional support hotline, organized events for charity, even acquiring a kidney dialysis machine for a local hospital. She enjoyed her flower gardens and nature walks. She was always on the lookout for something new for her craft business and loved a good bargain. She loved helping whenever she could. Her family was her joy. She touched many lives, and we will miss her smile and her kindness. She is survived by her husband, Wayne of South Houston, TX; daughter, Christina Laurent of Mount Carroll, IL; son, Michael (Pam) Larsen of Tupelo, MS; two brothers, Vincent Getz of Freeport, IL and, Arthur Getz of Savanna IL; 6 grandchildren, Charlie, Anthony, Sarah, Zachariah, Jake, Josh; 5 great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Ashley, Stephanie, Izzy, Tidus; 1 daughter-in-law, Diane Locy; 1 adopted son, Arlen Lang; 2 stepdaughters; and many nieces, nephews, cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; 2 sons; and 1 grandson. Services will be announced at a later date. Condolences can be sent in care of, Christina Laurent, 10055 Mill Rd, Mt. Carroll, IL 61053.