Hi,..
Is it okay if anybody tell me which cementery is Mr. Lawlis at? I want to visit him in the future.. I would appreaciate this!

Mr. Lawlis is such an amazing teacher and he has brought us so much happiness and inspired us by his passion for music. I still remember he taught us a song called "Stand by me". The memory is still fresh in my mind of the day we sang it together ten year after I left the school. His passion was contagious and the class was on fire! He is also supportive and truly cares about each of his student. Everytime I went back to CIC, he would give me a big hug.
It's really a shock and sad to hear his departure. I will always remember those beautiful melodies that he and the choir created in the hallway of CIC. Please rest in peace Mr. Lawlis, hope you will continue your music journey in heaven.

I worked with Jim 12 years ago and only for a year and a half but I always thought so fondly of him and was amazed at the kind of teacher he was. If he left that type of impression in such a short time I cannot fathom the difference he made to those he knew for years. His teaching literally did change this world

Dear all, I am posting this on behalf of Mr. Jim Lawlis' family (Sandra, Joel & Lucas).......
Hello to all of Jim's students and colleagues; (from his family)
Joel, Lucas and I would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of the messages. This means everything to us. We knew that Jim was special, extraordinary and beautiful person but to learn of his contributions at CIC, and the impact he had on you gives us strength to carry on. We will miss Jim, we are already missing him deeply and we are still in shock. We just want you to know every word and comment is read and appreciated. We did send Jim off with all of these comments, tenderly folded in hand drawn card designed by Joel then placed in his casket. Please keep making music whether professionally or for pleasure. This would make JIm happy! Thank you again. with love, Lucas, Joel and Sandra

I am gravely saddened to hearing that Mr. Jim Lawlis has passed away on April 19, 2021. He was an encouraging and inspirational teacher who, during my lost and frustrated years, reminded me how much I love music. His big smile on his face and his contagious laughters still echoes in our hearts. Thank you for everything! And may you Rest In Peace Mr Lawlis.

Jim,
It has been a few years since we have last worked together, but I wanted to say thank you.
Thank you for your energy and passion. In all of the plays and events that we worked on together, you always brought a unique, special touch to the event that made the whole thing come alive. Not one of those plays would have been the same without you. I always had some strange vision. You would say “no problem, and what about this...” or “I have the guy who can...” and you made it happen and then some.
Thank you for spending all of those Saturday mornings with the students and I in rehearsal. You always brought a sense of humour and inspired the students (and myself!) to achieve what seemed, from the outset, to be the impossible.
Thank you for your encouragement and your friendship. You always brought the steady calm to my “perfectionist storm” and for that I cannot thank you enough. I learned so much through your example of patience and leadership. You taught me to be a much better teacher.
And finally I thank you for being such a great friend.
You are missed and I am sure that you are delighting the heavens with your talents.

Mr. Lawlis was such an amazing teacher. I feel lucky I was one of his students. His class was simply the best and I was always looking forward to it. I still remember how he used to call me Rosie because this name would always bring a smile every time he says it. I visited CIC once after graduation and he welcomed me with his big and bright smile. 

His sudden departure came as a surprise and saddened me. 

My deepest sympathy to all the members of his family. I will cherish all the memories of him forever.

I went to CIC back in 2013 and I graduated in 2014. In that one year I took Mr. Lawlis's class twice because I just couldn't have enough him.

I have not spoken to Mr. Lawlis in 5 years, but the last time I spoke to him I had asked for his help in writing a recommendation letter for my university admission. It only took him a day to write back to me and unlike any other recommendation letter I've seen, his letter was so original and I knew in my heart he meant it and it was so genuine.

Regardless of how long I have not spoken to Mr. Lawlis, I was so saddened at the news of his passing. He was easily the best teacher I've ever had. Mr. Lawlis was kind, he was funky, he was supportive and the best part, he believed in his students. His laughter was so contagious and he brought so much joy to every class I had with him.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. He was loved by many and I hope his kind soul rests in peace.

Hello, Mr.Lawlis. I'm Shirley, one of your classmates who took your two classes. You are a very, very good teacher and always bring us joy. I am very sorry that I made you very unhappy in my last class. I appreciate meeting you and having your vocal music lessons. May the music you love to accompany you forever so that you can bring happiness to more people!

I went to Columbia international college in 2012, when I first attended his class, I thought he was very passionate about music, he also tried to learn student’s names and he would remember all of our names in a short time, you can tell that he truly cares so much about his students, Mr Lawlis is a kind-hearted person and well-respected teacher.
Then he learnt that I wanted to be a filmmaker, he was very excited about it, he asked me to if he can be in my movies in the future, I said of course, then two days later, I got the opportunity to create a parody of Gangnam Style for Columbia International College, I invited him to be my special guest for that video, he was like “I thought you’d never ask... “
Then he did it! Just like that, he was so awesome, we had such a fun time filming all the scenes together, he was so supportive of me, he wanted me to succeed more than I wanted to, I am so lucky to have known him and he is by far the best teacher I know, he was such a joyful person that he brightens up the room wherever he goes..rest in peace Mr Lawlis, you will always have a special place in my heart, thank you for being an amazing human!
if you want to watch the music video, link is attached.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAM23mDM1b0

Dear Mr Lawlis:
I am Jenny. Thank you so much for giving us so much supports. It’s my honor to be your student. I will miss you like what you written on the report of my last performance in class. I will remember all the time with you.
Please Rest In Peace❤️ We all miss you.

Mr. Lawlis, thank you for bringing so much joy to people around you and supporting every student to reach their full potential. I felt beyond proud to be your student, and I always will. R.I.P. You will be forever missed.

Your love of music has inspired many students. Your love of students has moved many of us at CIC. You made CIC a brighter school.

You will be dearly missed. Rest In Peace.

Jim's spirit and passion for students and student's learning music was in play everyday over his many years at Columbia. I admired so many wonderful qualities about Jim and it is his enduring positivity that will remain with his students and colleagues. 
Jim's star shone brightly in CIC with a big hello, a kind compliment, and the right music for every event. I can say with confidence that his student's excelled in music and in life.

To Sandra, Joel and Lucas, thank you for sharing Jim with us, and our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May the music play on.

Like many students from CIC, I came to know Mr. Lawlis from taking his music class and joining the school band. I told him that I have always wanted to learn how to play the saxophone, so he lent me one of his own and taught me how to play during lunch breaks and after school. I enjoyed it so much that I started taking lessons during the summer break and eventually became good enough to join his band. Mr. Lawlis was a very kind and generous man. His generosity went beyond what I would ever expect from him. For my graduation, he gave me a special gift. It was the saxophone he has been lending me. And because of this, I still play today. Now, I will think of you every time I play the saxophone, Mr. Lawlis.

My heart breaks to know that I will never again pass by Jim in the hallway and hear him say "hey girl" with a smile. This man poured so much of his heart into teaching at CIC. He had the rare ability to inspire and encourage students to feel confident enough to express themselves through music. Oftentimes, prior to a show, Jim would inspire me to get behind the drum kit or the microphone and allow me to be reminded of the joy of music. He was NEVER too busy to encourage or have a little fun! I have enjoyed reading the messages from his students, they are a testament to the fact that he won each of their hearts and he will never be forgotten. It is said that we never know the hour...I am heartbroken to lose him here on earth, but I am thankful to have known and been encouraged and inspired by such an incredible person.

i remember meeting Mr. Lawlis on May 14 to 16th 2018 during my Daughter Janet's graduation rehearsals and main performance. Such a friendly and humane Gentleman. May He find eternal repose and may those he left behind be comforted.

Jim,
I worked with Jim from his beginning at CIC, sharing trips with his music students and my drama students to Toronto, getting ready for the winter and spring shows, watching the instruments being carted back and forth through the drama room, sharing the stage and space. Your vibrancy and total enthusiasm will be missed by all. I will also miss the quiet chats. Oh how the students loved you. You gave your life your full energy. What better way is there to live a life?

I have had the pleasure of working alongside Lawlis for the past 2 years. He consistently graced the hallways with positivity and cheer, and would occasionally brighten our work place with mini orchestrated concerts with his students. I'll always look back fondly on these moments and on Jim Lawlis. My condolences to his family, may he rest in peace.

Thank you so much, Mr Lawlis.
Hope you could rest in peace in heaven. You are really the most important teacher for me in my life.

Having first being taught by Mr.Lawlis just last semester he quickly grew to become one of my most favourite teachers at CIC. He always started classes by checking up on everyone making sure our classroom morale was always high and you could tell he thoroughly cared for each student he mentored. He was a great teacher and an even better individual who expressed his love for everything in this world through his ability in the musical arts which was second to none, I hope he never stops playing wherever he is. May he rest in peace

Our dear Mr. Lawlis,

I needed his advise, help, and support so many times! And no matter how crazy or last minute my request was, he always greeted me with a smile and say: "I got you Keylin" I always told him how greatful I was for his inconditional support but I pray that he can see our feeling of gratitude even when he is not around.
The one memory that brought us both a good laugh, was the time when he brought his whole class to the Pine Girls Cafeteria to perform and in the middle of it, a crew came to test the alarms in each room of the residence.
Mr. Lawlis was not upset or angry, instead he encoraged his students to continue performing in between alarm tests and he got the job done.
His positive spirit and kind soul will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace my dear friend.

Keylin Palomo

I have known Mr. Lawlis since I joined CIC community in the year 2010. His passion, enthusiasm to teaching and his care and love to students always inspired me. The little "concerts" he and his Vocal Music class gave in front of academic office always cheered me up. He will be missed dearly as a colleague and a freind.

Dear Mr Lawlis, thank you for being a great music teacher and a friend to many students. You're truly loved ans respected by all the students and other teachers. I will never forget the times with you at the band in CIC. I won't forget your passion everytime you talked about music and many other things in life. Thank you so much!

My thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace.

Dear Mr.Lawlis
This is Lilly, Although it has been four years since I left CIC, I still can't forget the days when I played in the band with you, which was the happiest time after I went to Canada. I remember you said that I was the best piano player in the class and always asked me to play in the front row. You are the best teacher I have ever seen. You teach students with love and let music affect everyone of us. We will never forget you, we love you.❤️❤️❤️

I never met neither did I experience Mr. Lawlis as a teacher, but from what I have seen in the various videos shown in class, he seemed like a very lovable, enthusiastic, and overall a wonderful and kind person. My condolences go out to his family and those closest to him during this difficult time and may his sweet soul rest in perfect peace.

I have so many wonderful memories of Jim. I was fortunate to know him for a long time as he's one of the many colleagues of myself and my mom at CIC and so he saw me "grow up" to an extent. He may not have known it, but he influenced and inspired me, especially as a Dramatic Arts teacher. His creativity, spirit and talents went beyond his music classroom. I enjoyed working on many projects from the amazing Arts in Unison Show, to literacy songs, to my crazy musical rendition ideas for Grease and Footloose as well as many Christmas and talent shows! I also enjoyed going on many field trips together. We shared many laughs. He would say, "you plan the trip and tell me where to be". My favourite memory is probably when he surprised me on my last day at CIC by bringing his music class into my classroom and performing with them. It was so touching! I will strive to always maintain such passion for my teaching craft as he demonstrated on a daily basis! May he rest in peace and enjoy playing his Sax in the heavens ☁️

Difficult to comprehend this sad news. Jim was one of the kindest, most creative and talented people you could know. Cannot believe that no longer will we see him interacting with and inspiring his students or playing with and directing them at a school event. As so many have said here he was one of a kind. My heartfelt condolences to Jim’s family.

Hello, Mr. Lawlis. I may be the worst student you have ever been in education. I am very sorry for that. But facts are facts. I am very sorry for being late for class or playing with my mobile phone in class. But regret is no longer useful. I want to go back to the old days, because that was the happiest time in high school. If I can go back in time, I will take your class seriously. Hope you go well all the way. RIP

I never met Mr. Lawlis but going through all these tributes and pictures I can see that he was a kind-hearted and cheerful person who loved his job. I only ever saw him once on the walkway at school and I did not even know his name, yet I am saddened by his passing.
A few weeks ago, I watched the May graduation ceremonies from 2018 down to 2020 and seeing Mr. Lawlis's enthusiasm and liveliness while directing the choir in every one of the videos made me long for my graduation. Now he's gone. The world certainly needs a lot more people like him. My heart goes out to his loved ones.
Rest In Power Mr. Lawlis❤❤❤❤.

This came in really a sudden that I still cannot believe Mr. Lawlis passed away. What left in memories is his passion and love for students, music, and the choir and band in CIC. As a teacher, he has impacted many souls of the youth whom he taught in CIC. He will be greatly missed! My heartfelt condolences to his families!

It is with great sadness that I learned about this tragedy.

Mr. Lawlis was a great teacher and a great person who influenced the lives of so many students. He was respected and loved by his colleagues.
His sudden departure was a shock for all of us.He will always be remembered and missed.

My thoughts are with his family and friends.

Rest in peace!

Mr. Lawlis, this is Hank Lu, I want to thank you for teaching me vocal class in CIC for a semester and giving me confidence in singing!! I still remember when our class went to out school’s restaurant to have a performance on Valentine’s Day last year, after the performance I watched the video that my classmate recorded for me, and I saw your surprise face when I reach the high note, that’s when I know that I can do it, I can really sing!
I am so sad that you are gone, also, I am also regret that I didn’t take a picture with you due to the COVID-19 situation at the end of semester.
Anyway, I want to thank you again for being not only a great teacher and a great friend too! Also, I want to thank you for everything, I hope you Rest In Peace in heaven I will never forget you!!

It was a great shock for me to hear that Mr. Lawlis passed away so suddenly. I'll always remember the numerous conversations we had about music. He always expressed interest in the fact that my older child is also a musician from his alma mater, York University so we had alot in common to chat about.

Our mutual interest in music, the Hamilton music community and the benefits of multi instrumentalism always fuelled our conversations. I'll never forget his smile and he would always greet me as " Hello Mrs. Jacob". Always the gentleman, always friendly and approachable.

My sympathies and condolences go out to his 2 sons and family. Jim Lawlis left the world a better place. He was very giving and gave his all to his students, colleagues and to the CIC community.

He has left a huge irreplaceable void in all our lives. However his music legacy remains and the music and lyrics of the song we hear at every graduation - " It's you I see CIC" now mean that his legacy is etched in our minds and memories forever.

There are so many things that I will miss about Jim. He was at the heart of every special occasion at CIC and he played a direct role in making those occasions so memorable. That said, his impact reached much further than just those events. It was the smile and warmth he showed colleagues when passing in the hall. It was the wonderful impromptu concerts in the foyer and hallways that were a delight to staff and students alike. It was a real pleasure for people to see the incredible connection that he had with his students and I’m so happy that he brought that out of the classroom to share with us all.

Jim is someone I am happy to have known and worked with over the years, but he is the kind of person everyone wishes they had more time with. I offer my deepest sympathies to the family. Rest in Peace, Jim.

Dear Mr. Lawlis.

Thank you for spending the rest of your life teaching us knowledge and passing a lot of joy to everyone. You are really a dedicated teacher who loves music and loves to laugh. Your sudden departure caught everyone by surprise, but everyone's love and memories of you are eternal. 

Everything I get along with you stays in my memory, and I will never forget it. I will always miss you for your cuteness, enthusiasm, responsibility and dedication. May Mr. Lawlis be well and continue to pursue your dreams.

This will be the last time I say goodbye to you, please allow me to say this again. "Thank you, and have a great day."

I had graduated from CIC almost 5 years, but even now I still think about Mr.Lawlis, his music, and the joy we have, what a wonderful teacher, miss you.

Dear Mr. Lawlis, no matter how many words we use to write, it just cannot describe how much we've missed you. Your energy, your love, and your passion will always be with us. I had the pleasure of working with you on several projects, you have always shown your students your positivity and you always encourage them to do better to cheer up. I can only light one candle for you today, but you have brightened up our lives not just once, twice, but countless times. You will be missed forever. Rest in peace, Mr. Lawlis.

Jim,

Heaven has gained an angel, CIC students and staff have lost a gift. I have closed my eyes many times over the past few days and cried. Tears of loss and then tears of joy. I picture you in front of a keyboard inspiring kids and giving everyone around you the gift of you. Your passion, your music, your commitment, your care and concern for every student that entered your class is incredible. I take comfort knowing that your legacy and music will live on through the thousands and thousands of students you have inspired and touched. Your visits with Second cup Rice Krispies were always at the right time, you just seemed to know what everyone around you needed. You are a true gentleman and a remarkable teacher,

Lucas and Joel, thank you for sharing your dad with us. He reminds me everyday the difference we can make in the lives of students because he did everyday, year after year. I send you strength and love.

JIm, rest easy. I will think of you often. Gone but never forgotten.

Jim Lawlis was one of a kind. He was a talented, caring, passionate person who made each day brighter for those around him, whether through music, that mischievous grin, or pitching one of his ideas for a project with our students. Over the last 18 years, we worked on many projects together: talent shows, award ceremonies, community outreach, contests and graduations- he made every show special and nothing made him prouder than seeing his students shine. Jim was a driving force was to create wonderful opportunities and experiences for our students. We were so lucky to have you. I will cherish all of the beautiful memories. Rest in peace my friend.

Dear Jim,

Your sudden departure has touched our hearts and saddened our souls. Life at CIC will never be the same. Your enthusiasm and positive personality were constant and contagious, you were so joyful to be around. We will miss your presence and your wonderful smile.

Rest in peace.

I heard a lot about Mr Lawlis in CIC. Many students and staffs are fond of him. To be honest, singing was not my hobby and neither do I have a talent in singing. I joined vocal class so I can have Mr Lawlis as my teacher and he is one of the reason I can have a memorable last semester in CIC.

May you rest in peace Mr Lawlis

Jim embodied the heart and soul of CIC. I admired his ability to inspire his students. He ignited a spark of energy in all those around him with music and a smile. I have fond memories of his stories shared over lunch (take-out from Dragon Court).

My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time. Jim's legacy at CIC will continue to inspire. He was a great teacher and colleague and will be sorely missed.

Thank you Jim, rest in peace.

I’ve taken 3 courses with him - 1.5 years, that’s half of my time in cic. Mr. Lawlis was the one who created all of my memories, taught me, and inspired me. He brought music into my life. He was the most inspiring teacher I’ve ever met in my life. To write about all of my memories of him a whole book wouldn’t be enough. Thank you sir, for being my teacher. I hope one day I will inspire my future students the same way you’ve inspired me. Your music will always be in my heart. Rest in peace sir! I will forever be your band captain!

I had the privilege of working at CIC with Jim Lawlis for the last 9 years. His passion for music and for teaching shone through the hallways each and every day. I used to work out of an office next to the music room and I had the joy of hearing him with his students. It always sounded like Jim and the students were having such a great time. Jim would set up concerts with his students in different parts of the school and serenade us. I am really going to miss his presence at CIC. Thank you for all you given us. CIC won't be the same without you.

Jim's passion for playing music was equal to his passion for teaching it to others. I loved collaborating with him on the many plays, talent shows, award ceremonies and music projects that were performed over so many years at CIC. He understood so well the joy that music can bring to people whether singing, playing an instrument, composing or just clapping along. When I watched him play his saxophone with many bands on many stages, his talent was huge and his presence appreciated by his bandmates and audiences alike. But it was with his students that his smile was widest and his pride for their accomplishments was always evident.

Jim, I'll miss you. You've touched the lives of so many people around the world and mine in such a positive way. Rest in peace and I'll always smile when I hear the melody of a sax being played....

My deepest condolences to his boys and family.

To a beautiful soul, a man with overflowing happiness and love. With a smile that could light up a room and performances that could inspire lives, you will always be remembered.
You will live through your legacy, thorough lives which you have impacted. I know you are in a better place now... Rest In Peace Mr. Lawlis.

My deepest condolences to his family and friends...

I kinda miss you the time always calling me big guy. Hope you can rest for a bit❤️❤️I am still bad at singing right now, I’m sure I’ll get better soon!

Mr. Lawlis was one of the most amazing teacher from CIC! Although I had only been in CIC for half semester, I’d always looked forward to going to Mr. Lawlis’ classes. The classes was always full of laughters and joys. It was an honour having Mr. Lawlis as my teacher. You’ll forever be missed!

Mr. Lawlis had a tremendous impact on all of us who got to know him. I feel blessed to have known and worked with him. Our second floor hallway will not be the same without his music and positive energy... His vibrant spirit will always be in our hearts and memories.
My sincere condolences to the family, may the good memories bring you peace and strength during this difficult time.