James Ronald Lawson passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at the age of 76 after a courageous battle against cancer. His family was at his side at his home in Boca Rotan, Florida.
Lawson, formerly of Stryker Corporation, will be remembered for his dedication to orthopedic excellence and his willingness to help mentor and guide others in the field. He is survived by his wife, three sons, his grandchildren as well as brothers, sisters and many nieces and nephews.
His family said in a statement, “Ron was renowned for his passion for people and his ability to inspire greatness in everyone he met. Ron built relationships both personally and professionally around the world. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need and took great pleasure in the success of others. Ron was a very special person and he will be missed and cherished by his loved ones and friends. He lived a full life devoted to his beliefs, the people around him, and the country that provided him the opportunity to succeed.”
Lawson began his 50 years in the orthopedic industry in sales and sales leadership. He founded the orthopedic company Professional Orthopaedics, Inc. and co-founded IMDA, an advocacy group for independent distributors of orthopedic products before joining Pfizer’s Orthopedic Division, Howmedica in 1996 as senior vice president of worldwide sales and customer service.
He joined Stryker Corporation as senior vice president of sales, marketing and product development when it acquired Howmedica. He was instrumental in the successful integration of the two companies, and then went on to build up Stryker’s international businesses and strong customer relations across all regions as Stryker’s Group President, International.
In 2005, he was named Group President, Orthopaedics and International after being asked to lead the U.S. Orthopaedic division as well.
Lawson retired from Stryker at the end of 2007. He continued to offer strategic consulting services for the orthopedic medical technology field as a member of The Lawson Group, LLC, which he founded with his sons.
“Ron Lawson was a consummate professional and he humbly served our customers, had an intense competitive fire, and always upheld our company values. Ron showed exceptional leadership and his inspiration and energy shaped Stryker’s unique sales culture in orthopedics. Ron was highly respected for his relentless pursuit of excellence, and he cared deeply about people. He was a champion for talent and developed many leaders. Ron Lawson was a great mentor, coach and friend to so many people in our company and industry,” Kevin Lobo, Chairman and CEO, Stryker told Orthopedics This Week.
“We are very grateful for Ron Lawson’s many lasting contributions. Ron always made those around him better, and his passion for serving our customers continues to serve as an inspiration to those who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ron’s family and he will be deeply missed,” he added.
