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James Richard Dawson
Aug 18, 1934 Jan 18, 2018
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Jim left this earth today to be with the love of his life, Anita, to whom he was married to for 58 years.

He leaves behind his 3 children, Lynn Hull of Turlock, Alan Dawson (Diane) of Santa Cruz, and Neal Dawson (Nancy) of El Portal; Also 2 grandchildren, Kayla Hull (Terry Edwards) of Stockton and Staff Sgt. Tyler Coyle of Gambrills, MD., currently serving in Afghanistan.

Jim was a proud member of the military.  Serving 22 years and retiring as a Sgt. Major for the Iowa National Guard.  During his time in the Guard he had a once in a lifetime experience.  He had the honor of being on a security detail for JFK while he was running for President.  Mr. Kennedy shook his hand and said, “Thank you for your service today.” That was a favorite memory Jim loved to share with everyone!

Jim retired from the USDA in 2000 after 31 years.  The USDA took him and his family from Ft. Dodge, Iowa to California in 1973.  While working for the USDA he served as President of the local Union.

After retiring, Jim loved to keep busy woodworking, traveling to Pismo Beach with Anita, helping friends, doing word search books and going to Perko’s on McHenry every Thursday for breakfast.

Jim had the gift of gab and didn’t know a stranger.  He made friends everywhere he went and loved to tell stories of his life and he had plenty to tell.

The family would like to thank Memorial Hospital for their loving care.

Services will be held at Allen Mortuary on Monday, February 5th at 10am.  A graveside service will follow at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the WWII Museum would be appreciated.  Checks can be mailed to:

WWII Museum 945 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70130