Born in Rochester, New York, Lawler attended public schools.

He was active in organizing trade and labor unions and served as president of the Ship Carpenters and Calkers' Association.

Lawler was again elected a member of the board of aldermen in 1896 and served until his death in Chicago at age 53.

A Catholic[citation needed], he was interred in Calvary Cemetery in Evanston.

This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress