John Dawson Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Johnny Allen Jr.
October 7, 2010
Much Love I tell you! Mr. J, I miss you and I know you are enjoying the afterlife up there in Heaven!
Kels and Ms. Heather, I Luv ya like family and I am so Blessed to have you two in my life. Be Blessed!
Johnny Allen Jr.
Linda Lake
October 6, 2010
The evidence of his love for the children of our church is already at work and fulfilling his purpose here on earth. God bless you Heather for sharing him so wonderfully! May God comfort and bless you this week especially as you remember him. He would be so enjoying this wonderful fall and I pray God is using that to comfort, and to so you his love! God is our true Father, Husband, and Love!
Leah Raatz
October 6, 2010
Kelsey - my condolences to you and your family. John was a wonderful man, and I will always have many fond memories of him as a coach and a mentor and a great man.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Heather Huseby
September 28, 2010
The memories our beloved John W. Dawson (husband, father and grandfather) left us are a gift that keeps the flame of our love for him burning bright in our hearts.
Rp Yang
July 3, 2010
I miss you & forever, you will be one of my motivations to keep moving with life; to know that I was and I possibly still am disappointing you hurts. I'm going to go to school, keep doing what I Love and keep runnen by what you have taught me.
I miss you and.. I miss you.
May 5, 2010
Dear Heather and Kelsey, we were shocked just recently to learn of John's passing. Our condolences go out to you both (Kelsey, you were just a tyke when we knew you at UND). We still treasure the running joke Gerry had with John when he was on the Library's reference desk--how many bricks are there in the Chester Fritz Library? Hugs to you, Patsy and Gerry Nies
Reginald Curry
February 12, 2010
My condolences to you and your family. I had brief history with you and John at UND.
Reggie Curry and Family
Robert L Crawford
February 12, 2010
Heather/Kelsey.I was deeply sadden to hear about the death of John.My sincere condolence.I ran into him quite awhile ago and had a nice conversation.We had talked about getting together all the old UND folks.I`m really sorry we dind`t make that happen.Mack,Don,Tom and I frequently get together and try to keep up on the latest with our old college friends.I`ve been living out in the Woodbury area since we moved here in 1979.I know its been a long time since I saw you and John.All our families have grown up and have their own kids.I know you and Kelsey and all the rest of your family will miss John.I`m just sorry I didn`t make a bigger effort to get together with you guys.Anyway,I`m sorry for loss and hope that you and your family stay strong.Our thoughts and prayers are with you and family.If I can be of any help,you can reach me at my office 651-275-8660 or cell 651-226-3663.May God Bless and keep you and your family always.
December 20, 2009
Merry Christmas 2009 and Happy New Year to all who loved and honored John by writing in this guest book in 2009. While my heart is broken, the love and memories I cherish of my beloved John will live on forever. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Heather
Mary Rueter
November 5, 2009
Heather and Kelsey ~
We just returned from a two week trip to N Carolina and was reading the mail that came while we were gone when I read the shocking news of John's death in the summary of the retirees luncheon. I can only imagine the pain of losing your husband/father.
John's infectious smile and twinkle in his eyes exuded the love of Jesus to all he met. He certainly was a day-brightener!
As John believed, God is good, and His goodness will take care of you in all circumstances, even when the days seem dark and gray, for his mercies are new every morning (which is the creed my father lived by and so do I).
Just think of how much brighter heaven is with John's broad smile and hearty laugh!
God bless you throughout the days ahead, no matter how many that may be.
Cary Waterman
October 31, 2009
Dear Heather and Kelsey:
I have just now received the shockingly sad news of John's death. He was a wonderful man and it was a delight for me to work with him at NCC. He always had time for students who needed someone to talk with and I know he was an incredible mentor and role model for many. This is an extremely painful loss for both of you, but we are all a little less with John gone. He was one of a kind and will be much missed.
October 18, 2009
Blessings upon you and your family in this time. May God use His servants to comfort you at this time of loss and sorrow.
In Christ,
Jeff Bexson
Ann Reed
October 17, 2009
Heather and family, My heart just breaks to think he is gone, never to see that joyous face at STWC again, but rejoicing in his homegoing. Know you are in my prayers for the peace that passes understanding for such a loss is hard, yet knowing God is in charge sustains us. Know he is missed, praying for strength. As you can see by all the contacts, he has touched soooo many lives and his memory will live on as seeds will bare fruit. Blessings to you and yours, Ann Reed
October 17, 2009
Kelsey,
My name is Rosland Dawson, and I am your Aunt Ira's daughter. I pray that you and your daughter grow in the grace that you father has put before you. I will always remember you father because he was our babysitter and a good sitter. I will always love him and I am very happy to know that God has him now. I look forward to seeing you and your daughter soon.
Rosland Dawson
Jenny Duck
October 17, 2009
Kelsey Mouse~
My deepest sympathies are extended to you, your daughter, and your mom. Your dad was an amazing man, who had a heart of gold. He was so welcoming, understanding, and wise. You were so fortunate to have him as your father and he was so blessed to have you as his daughter. He had such a gentle spirit and could always make you smile. My heart goes out to you. I wish I could give you a huge hug right now and I wish I would have been there for you. I miss you.
Susan Howard-Dukes
October 16, 2009
To Heather, Kelsey & Kelsey's Daughter,
My name is Susan Howard-Dukes. My mother, Vira Dukes (Dawson) was the aunt of John Wayne. His father and my mother was brother and sister. I have spoken with Kelsey several times since the passing of my cousin. I will miss John Wayne but I know that he is in a better place now. No worries, no cares, he is with his earthly father but even better he is with his "Heavenly Father". My prayers go out to all his family near and far. The Lord moves and works in very mysterious ways. Take comfort in knowing that John Wayne's Obituary spoke for him. He led a good life and my prayers are that the fruit that God allowed him to produce in Kelsey will continue to blossom on to her daughter and the fruit will keep on growing,adding to it more knowledge, wisdom and love because of whom we serve. If there is anything that I can do for you, please don't hesitate to give me a call. Again my prayers and sympathy is with you all during your bereavement time. God will never put on any of us more than we can bear. All things are possible through Christ Jesus. In deepest sympathy,
Cousin Susan D. Howard-Dukes, Warren, Ohio
October 13, 2009
Heather: We were so sorry to hear of John's sudden passing! He was a special person. You and your family are in our prayers. I will touch base with you in the near future. His memory will remain as a person of joy and integrity! Love, Linda F. Fancher and the NorthPoint Family
Yolanda Rosario
October 12, 2009
To Heather & kelsey,
I want to express my deepest sympathy for your loss but God's gain. Mr. Dawson is with our Lord and continuing God's work in heaven. I will always remember his Smile and his kindness. My prayers are with you both :)
Evangelist Cynthia Wade
October 12, 2009
To the Dawson Family: May the peace and Grace of God be with you, and may my thoughts and memories live on of John Wayne, a truly blessed young man and highly favored. I'll never forget our love, and friendship as cousins we shared through the years. May all your years of hard work and dedication live on.
Marlene Hawkins
October 12, 2009
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
John Hardy
October 11, 2009
I am really at a lost of word's right now just hearing the news of big john's passing, he was one of the first guy's i met when i started working for the MNSCU system and in conversation would always say "That;s right, speak on it you know what you're talking bout" and when I heard of this news the first thing that came in mind was him standing in the middle of the gym talking about him@ crookston mn. and me @ theif river falls. My deepest and heart felt sympathy goes out too you the family, near and far. and I pray that you guy's stay strong in such a tough time.My heart and thought's Big John D. Hardy
God Bless
KAREN FREEMAN
October 11, 2009
DEAREST KELSEY,HEATHER,AND ACHSAH: YOU HAVE MY DEEPEST AND HEARTFELT SYMPATHY. THE NEWS OF MY DEAR COUSINS DEPARTURE FROM THIS LIFE WAS OF GREAT SHOCK. KELSEY YOU ARE TRULY YOUR FATHERS DAUGHTER; YOUR SWEET AND KIND SPIRT ARE TRAITS OF HIS. HEATHER I REMEMBER THE LAUGHS YOU AND I USED TO SHARE OVER THE TELEPHONE AND THE TALKS WE HAD. TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER. KEEP THE FAITH AND I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING AND SEEING YOU ALL IN THE FUTURE.
YOURS TRULY KAREN FREEMAN
Rhea Swinson-Fitzpatrick
October 11, 2009
Dear Heather and Kelsey -
It is with shock and sadness that I read about John's passing. I feel very lucky to have worked with John at Normandale many years ago - his committment to and belief in each students potential was infectious. When I changed jobs and moved to UST I met Kelsy, a beautiful and smart young woman who is a wonderful gift for both her parents. Johns passion for education and humanity was so gracefully passed on to Kelsy.
John's death is a great loss, but it is comforting knowing that his love affected those who had the pleasure and good luck to have known him.
My thoughts are with you all.
Rhea Swinson-Fitzpatrick
Lori Scheel
October 10, 2009
Heather and family: So sorry to hear of John's untimely death. I hope you find comfort in all the wonderful memories that you shared.
Cassandra Robinson
October 10, 2009
Heather, Kelsey, Achsah and Willie Joe,
I am truly saddened to hear about the loss of my cousin John Wayne. It is comforting to hear that he was well-thought of by the community and STWC. Everything that I remember about John Wayne was expressed in this guest book. His smile, soft spokenness, gentleness and kindness are all traits that I remember him possessing as a young man growing up in Warren, Ohio. Although I haven't seen John Wayne in many years I miss him as if we never missed a beat. Boy, when I look at the picture, I see uncle John. Death and the grave are defeated at the cross of Jesus Christ and we will all see him again one day.
I love you John Wayne.
Respectfully submitted by Cassandra Dawson Robinson
Lisa Thompson
October 10, 2009
Dawson Family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you for the loss of your father, husband, brother & grandpa...You are all in my thoughts & prayers.
Remember God is good ALL the time...Rejoice in his transition! He IS with the Lord!!!
In His Love,
Lisa Thompson, Ciara & Aaryn
Your STWCI Family
Shelley Harker
October 10, 2009
Dear Heather, Kelsey and family: What a shock to hear of John's sudden passing. Heather, I worked with both you and John at Normandale for a time. My heart and prayers are with all of you at this very difficult time. What I know for sure, is that God has you firmly in His grip and will be your strength. Blessings.
Shelley Harker
October 10, 2009
Dear Heather,
I was so touched to hear of the death of John. I will miss his warm greetings and his infectious smile @ STW.
Peace be with you.
Sincerely,
Rosalind Sampson
Mary Smith
October 9, 2009
Dear Kelsey,
I was so sorry to learn of the sudden loss of your beloved father. Although we never met, I feel as though I knew him from your conversations with me during our time at UST. I know his kindness and warmth live on in you and in Achsah. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy,
Jennifer Monson Kremers
October 9, 2009
I have wonderful memories of John as my traveling basketball coach in middle school. No doubt he touched many lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you Kelsey and family.
Chris & Sabina Bingman
October 9, 2009
Heather,Kelsey
My heartfelt condolencenes to you and your family.
I remember John with a big smile as he ushers at STWC
Love and prayers,
Patricia Dukes
October 9, 2009
Heather/Kelsey/Achsah,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your husband, father, grandfather and my cousin. I had not seen 'John Wayne' as we called him for a very long time and it was with shock and awe that I received news of his passing. He leaves behind loving families both in Minnesota and Ohio, so take comfort in knowing that he was very much loved, respected and appreciated by us all.
Alvin L. Dawson Sr
October 9, 2009
Heather and Kelsey,
I was shocked and saddened to hear the news. John, my cousin, is now in the presence of the Lord. I have not seen John in many years, but to see his picture is to see myself. I spent many hours over Uncle John's house with John Wayne riding herd over his younger cousins. He guided young ones even then. We shared a kindred spirit, and may that Spirit of God comfort you now. If the Son therefore make you free, you shall be free indeed. We love him, we will miss him. John Wayne is now free indeed. My prayers and thoughts go with you now and forever.
Arlene Dawson
October 9, 2009
To Heather and Kelsy,
May the Peace with God Take Care of your Salvation but May the Peace of God Take Care of your Situation!
My name is Arlene L Dawson I am the daughter of Arthur Dawson who's the brother of John Dawson (your father in law and grandfather) I bring you greetings and offer you my condelence from Warren, Ohio! I am so sorry for your lost and I can not express to you how much we as John's family have lost someone as John Wayne that can not be replaced so to you Heather and Kelsey let God be your comfort at this time and always remember "Weeping may endure for a night but Joy cometh in the Morning"!
Miracles and Blessings to the both of you!
Humbly Submitted
Arlene L Dawson
Warren, Ohio
Alyssa (Jaeger) Donley
October 9, 2009
I remember John from my teenage years when he coached our softball team. What a wonderful, caring and charismatic man he was...and to remember that about him as a teenager is something pretty great!
My blessings and prayers are with you Heather, Kelsey and family.
Robin Bridge
October 9, 2009
Dear Heather, Kelsey, and Achsah, Words can not express how shocked and deeply hurt I was to learn that John had passed away. Instantly memories flooded my head of you and I Kelsey in the kitchen whispering and planning what we'd eat and what we'd do for the night...then here would come your dad saying "you guys, didn't I tell you no more whispering?" Or the time when Hailey and I were at your house and that huge storm crashed down and uprooted the trees all over town and John giggles and says "you wanna go look around at the damage?" So we hopped in the liberty and snooped around, then waited in line at McD's drive-thru I think forEVER...man he was a little kid sometimes with us. The main thing is this, John Dawson made a huge impact on my daughter Hailey, he went the extra mile to make her feel loved and part of the family. He went to grandparents day at her school and took her and Achsah to the movies with a genuine heart. Hailey and I are so grateful to God to have known John Dawson, what an amazing role model of Godly character.
We love you all and will be continually praying for healing for each of you. Heather you are strong and couragous, Kelsey you are a light that shines so bright just like your dad, Never change, and Achsah you're an angel!
Angela High-Pippert
October 9, 2009
Kelsey and family -- I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember meeting your father at your graduation, Kelsey. He was so proud of you that day, and every day, I am sure. Angela High-Pippert
October 8, 2009
John was the epitome of a gentle giant - always had a kind word, could make you smile in ANY situation, and absolutely radiated with love. A true man of God.
Our hearts go out to you Heather, Kelsey and Achsah - we will continue to pray for strength and comfort during this difficult time.
The Wren Family, Saint Paul, MN
SHARON SCOTT
October 8, 2009
Dear Dawson Family, How devastated I am to have just learned my husband's cousin, "John Wayne" had passed. Even more devastating he passed on my birthday. After hearing my husband's passionate childhood stories regarding "John Wayne" and Willie Joe (John's brother) I finally had the pleasure of meeting "John Wayne" at an Ohio family reunion. And what a pleasure it was. He was all that Greg described and was the splitting image of his father!! We all enjoyed that moment in time!!!!
When we hosted the 1992 Eadom-Freeman Family Reunion at Kings Dominion, just outside Richmond, Virginia, "John Wayne" was there. It was important to all of us. It was the last time I saw him and his daughter. We will relish the memories. While his Ohio family members are deeply saddened because they too have lost a brother and cousin, our prayers are offered to Heather and Kelsey, that you remain strong to get through this. I am truly blessed that I had the pleasure to have met the man that brought many smiles to my husband, John's brother, aunts, uncles, and cousins. WE LOVE YOU!!!!
Mrs. Sharon W. Scott - Walkerton, Virginia
Debbie Lhotka
October 8, 2009
Dear Heather, Kelsey and Achsah,
Words can not express how much John meant to me. He was so proud of his family! It was so much fun to share in his joy as he marveled at all that Achsah learned at Step By Step. He WAS SO proud of you Kelsey! I know that he looked forward to the next "chapter" in your life. Heather he adored you, the love you had for each other was so apparent. I know he hoped that Kelsey and Michael would have a strong marriage, you certainly were good role models. Little Achsah-your Grandpa always reminded me that I had to take good care of his little girl. I certainly intend to keep that promise! Your family at Step By Step will continue to love and nuture what your grandpa was so passionate about-a love of learning. Take good care of yourselves during this stressful time. It will get easier. You will continue to be in my prayers.
Nathaniel Sikeley
October 8, 2009
Kelsy,
May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, whom you late father save during life on earth comfort and strengthen you during this time of loss.
Nathaniel
October 8, 2009
Heather,Kelsey, and Achsah,
I am so sorry and saddened by your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. May God comfort you and bring peace to your hearts.
Deepest Sympathy,
Barbara Love
Barb Schlaefer
October 8, 2009
Heather, Kelsey, Mike and Achsah,
John brought purpose, laughter, passion and leadership to our work here at the Office of Higher Education. There will never be another John Dawson. Thank you for sharing him with us. He adored you all to the moon and back. The stories about his family (and Aschah in particular) made him beam the most. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Patrick Donaway
October 8, 2009
In the brief time that I knew John, he impacted my life. His smile, warmth, and love for kids would light up the room. He will be truly missed.
Kathy Mann Arnott
October 8, 2009
Kelsey,
I'm so sorry and sad - there are never the right words for the shock and grief you are experiencing. I know from conversations during class breaks and shared time in class how much you love your dad. My thoughts are prayers are with you, Achsah and your mom today, tomorrow and the coming days. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Kathy Mann Arnott (UST Public Policy and Leadership)
David and SueAnn Mathieu
October 8, 2009
Heather and Kelsey,
To say that John was a special person in my life would be an understatement. I so appreciated having John as a friend, colleague, and breakfast buddy. No one could make me laugh or brighten my day like John. I know this was shared by many, many Normandale faculty, staff, and students as well as in the community. I will also miss John as a dedicated, passionate, and compassionate student affairs professional that had an enormously positive impact on the college and the students looking for a place to start a life, much as he did himself when he arrived in Minnesota. You are all in our thoughts.
Susan Heegaard
October 8, 2009
To John's family:
I was so sad to hear about John. He filled the space he occupied with his big laugh and warm heart. I was so impressed with his deep commitment to helping young people realize and achieve their goals. He really believed that with aspiration and preparation, everyone has a chance to complete their education. John was a wonderful role model for us all.
Susan Heegaard
Sean Cline
October 8, 2009
Heather, Kelsey and Achsah we are heart-broken at this premature loss of John. John was one of the nicest, most joyful men I have ever met. His presence lifted my spirit every time I saw him. I pray the light of his life will shine forever on yours. Please receive our deepest sympathy.
Emily Kissane
October 8, 2009
To John's family,
John and I worked together at the Office of Higher Education only for a few months, but I feel like we've known each other for years. He was such a warm and caring person to everyone he met. You are all in my thoughts.
Brenda Larter
October 8, 2009
John's Family:
Thank you so much for sharing John with us. He was a very infectious man. His humor, laughter and wonderful outlook on life brought back the laughter to our agency. He will very much be missed by all who knew him, even if they just met him.
October 8, 2009
To John's Family:
I worked with John in Higher Education and helped him with his massive college mailings. I will miss his great sense of humor, style and laugh. My prayers and thoughts are with you all in this difficult time. Pat Ellis, St. Paul, Minnesota
Brian Geraghty
October 8, 2009
Take heart and consolation in your faith. As John told me more than once "God is good" not everyone can appreciate this as John did. Now he is finding out how right he was. What a great man and great christian he was. I pray that the lord helps his family just as John helped so very many people in his life.
October 8, 2009
Heather and Family, John will be greatly missed. His smile is something we will always remember. I enjoyed being with him on the usher team. It is a joy to know that he was doing something he loved the day before his passing. We love you and will continue to pray for you and your family.
The Joel Shields Family
Kelli Budd
October 7, 2009
I'm so sorry about your family's loss. It sounds like John touched many peoples lives and was a remarkable man. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
a member of the Minnesota Cross Country team
Jo Evans Coleman
October 7, 2009
Heather and Family it is with great sadness in hearing of John's passing. He was indeed an exceptional colleague during my tenure at Normandale and beyond. One of my favorite hymnals 'O my record will be there' is certainly a connation fitting for John in his recent transition. May his spirit live on with you.
Kathy Bednark
October 7, 2009
John had a kind and generous spirit. He shared so many gifts with the world. It was a privilege to have worked with him at Normandale. I treasure my association with him and express my deepest sympathy to Heather and his family.
Craig Schroeder
October 7, 2009
Heather & Kelsey,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. John was always so pleasant, and nice to me. I loved John's smile. Reading this guest book has made me realize that he touched so many lives. He will be missed by many. I just want you to know that my prayers and thoughts are with you. God Bless You!
Ava Johnson
October 7, 2009
He was such a nice man. He will be missed. Always smiling. I remember he used to speak to all the teens in teen church.
Michelle Mack
October 7, 2009
Heather, both you and John helped my go back to school at Normandale and were always available for comfort and encouragement. My heart and prayers are with you and your family. I can hear John's laugh and see his big smile. I am grateful to have had him touch my life. I am grateful for you too.
Love in Christ,
Tony Okusanya
October 7, 2009
My condolences to the family.
Megan Smith
October 7, 2009
I did not know John during life, but was one of the U of M cc girls that found him at Lake Como. He sounds like a great guy, and we are all very sad to hear of his passing, but are comforted knowing he is in a better place now. My prayers go out to John and his family! God bless you all.
Ginny Dodds
October 7, 2009
To John's Family,
My office was right next to John's at Higher Ed and he was a constant source of optimism and laughter. He had a kind word for all and always went out of his way to make others feel good. We had lots of good talks and laughs and he made coming to work a real joy. He cared so much about kids and put his heart and soul into his work. He talked about your family all the time and loved you to pieces. We are all thinking about you.
Nancy Hylden
October 7, 2009
My condolences to your entire family, and particularly to Kelsey and Achsah. I did not know your Dad, Kelsey, but having heard about him from you, and by just observing how you conduct yourself and care about the community around you, I know what a great person he was.
That wonderful spirit carries on through you.
The Harris Family
October 7, 2009
God bless you and your family. We as the Harris family are praying for you Heather and Kelsey as you all deal with a sudden and tragic life changing moment in your lives. It is a great lost to your family and many different families. He was a great inspiration to our famiily and we loved him very much. We love you all and will continue to pray for your family. God bless you and our hearts are with you. Love always The Harris Family.
Judy Paul
October 7, 2009
Heather, Kelsey, and Achsah
I am so sorry to hear this news. My heart goes out to you. You are in my thoughts and prayers everyday.
October 7, 2009
Heather and Kelsey,
We are so sorry to hear about John, he was a graet person, always smiling and laughing. He always made you feel good. We have had alot of good times with John in the past. He will be greatly missed, our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Rocky and Vicky George
Kimberly
October 7, 2009
I was a student at a high school he worked with. I was so shocked to hear of his passing. I thank Dawson for helping me my Freshman and Sophomore year and I hope he is in a better place and I Thank him fully for helping kids like me succeed.
October 7, 2009
We are members of the body of Christ. That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. We feel your pain. Thank God for his life...such a gentle and strong spirit he had. Praying for you! - Love in Christ - Susan Vee
Linda Lake
October 7, 2009
Heather, I just heard and I am sorry for his sudden departure. I know you will be very sad adjusting to life here without him. Hugs and prayer I send for now.
Love in Christ,
Linda Lake
Adaobi Okolue
October 7, 2009
I have been praying for the family since Monday evening, and cannot even comprehend this loss for the family, the community and the church. John's office at Normandale was the go-to spot for me when I first started at Normandale, and at Speak he always made me feel like kin. Grasp even harder around God's mighty strength and never let go. You will make it through this.
October 7, 2009
Dear Kelsey and family,
I am very sorry for your loss. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Love
Fatima Villasenor
Walter James
October 7, 2009
John Dawson was one of my favorite people at Normandale Community College. He will be deeply missed.
October 7, 2009
I can’t think of anyone who smiled more then John. It’s amazing how God pulls people together for reasons so much deeper than we would consider. We don’t know how things are going to turn out and when you look at all of the variables it seems like one of the worst things to see and one of the hardest things to understand… but I believe, as I know you do, God has great purposes for your family. I pray that Achsah grows to know what a TRUE hero her grandpa was. I pray only God’s will is done in this family and that anything darkness means to use for harm, God’s hand will prevail and light will quench all darkness.
Heather, your pain is surely the deepest of all. I pray God gives you super-natural strength, peace, understanding, wisdom, clarity, and perception in this time. I can’t imagine your heartache. May you find peace and happiness through this and I pray God’s spirit teaches you how to heal in this process and that no cut goes unmended. I pray your deepest sorrows are given to the Father, that you may find peace.
I will keep everyone involved on my heart and in my prayers. I'm sorry everyone has to face this pain right now, but may we all be refined in the fire.
God please send your angels on a double-shift and double-teamed (if there is such a thing) encamped around them right now, and bring them a smile... May the Lord bring something GREAT and something BEAUTIFUL from John's passing.
I guess I'll stop now... my heart is just full.
The Wilson's
Larissa, Antonio, Jamien, David, Antonio Jr., & Hannah
Katoria Kennedy
October 7, 2009
Dear, Dawson and Huseby Family :
The Kennedy and Tappin family sends our deepest sympathy and prayers. We were grately saddened to hear the tragic news of John's passing.We've known, John,Heather,and Kelsey for nearly 17 years. Words can not express how warm and welcoming your family has been to us over the years. We will miss John's bright smile and laughter and great sense of humor. We pray that the lord will place his arms around your family and embrace you during this time.
Sincerly, with love, Katoria Kennedy
Terry Phillips
October 7, 2009
Heather and Family, John will be greatly missed. His smile, big heart and inviting spirit of all people will live on in our hearts. We love you and will continue to pray for you and your family.
Love,
Terry and Desiree Phillips
Kim V.
October 7, 2009
The students and parents of Patrick Henry High School truly appreciate all the hard work Mr. Dawson did to help implement the University of Minnesota's Leadership Access Program (LAP). In part to Mr. Dawson’s influence and leadership, my daughter was able to earn high marks on her college entrance exams and is looking forward to attending a selective and prestigious university next fall.
Thank you Mr. Dawson. Your goal of helping her achieve her dream has been realized and your commitment did not go unnoticed. We will make sure to pay it forward.
You will be missed.
Patrick Henry H.S. Parent
October 7, 2009
Sorry for the loss, my prayers are with the family, the professional community in which Mr. Dawson's presence will greatly be missed, as well as to our community for loss of such a Great Spirit. On behalf of International Wellness Network, Inc. we stand with the family during these times. http://youthnationgreencorp.bbnow.org
October 7, 2009
Kelsey and Heather - I am so sorry about John. I didn't know him as well however I remember how he made us feel so welcome at STW and had a solid handshake and smile everytime we saw him. We will continue to hold your family up in prayer. Curtis & Gloria Marks
October 7, 2009
John seemed like an amazing man, and I'm glad we were their to be with him in his last moments. Hopefully we were able to provide him with comfort and warmness as he was taken up by God. My sincere condolences go out to all who knew this wonderful man, especially his family. Your in my thoughts and prayers!
Take Care,
KaylaDahl
(Member of the University Minnesota Cross Country team)
Gary Wilson
October 7, 2009
On behalf of the women's cross country team at Minnesota we want to extend our deepest sympathy to John's entire family.
You will be in our prayers.
Willie J. Johnson
October 7, 2009
Dear Heather and Family,
My heart goes out to you at this time. Having worked closely with John I know what a warm, compassionate, thoughtful and intelligent man he was. I could always count on him for some re-assuring words and thoughts. As you continue on this journey of grief and loss, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope that eventually your treasured memories of him will help to provide some salve to your pain. Love and peace to you.
Donna Kreger
October 7, 2009
Heather and Family:
We are sorry to hear of your lost. John was always kind to me.
Sincerely,
Donna and Wayne Kreger (NCC)
Annie Workman
October 7, 2009
Heather and all Family~
You are all in my Daily thoughts and prayers. John is a Wonderful man and when the sun wasn't shining... he WOULD still make a beautiful day out of it! I am truly sorry for your loss and a deeply saddened by it! What a huge loss we have! I will miss running into him at Starbucks in the morning but now will watch for him in spirit there!
October 7, 2009
Dawson-Huseby Family,
I'm deeply sadden for your loss and our loss at STWCI. John was truly that Bright and Shining Star. He had a genuine love for God; his granddaughter and giving Hugs. We have been so blessed to know and Love our brother. I pray that God will comfort you all in these times of sadness & loneliness. Alice & Karl Heithecker
Katie Russell
October 7, 2009
Kelsey, I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. It sounds like he was such a great man that accomplished so much and touched many lives. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
TM D'Amato
October 7, 2009
Heather & family,
I am so sorry for your loss, John was the sweetest spirit I knew, he was always coming up to you to hug ya & asking how you are doing, at least he always did with me. He was a quiet spoken man and I will miss him along with the other people over the years at Speak the word- that John touched.
TM
Colleen O'Brien
October 7, 2009
Kelsey & Heather - I am so sorry to hear about John! I will never forget him coaching our basketball team. He was a great role model and was such a sweet man. Know that you have support and love around you to lift you through this tough time! Colleen (O'Hearn) O'Brien
The Carmichaels
October 7, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow. We will always remember John's bright smile and wonderful laugh. He was a very special person.
The Carmichael Family
James, Vanessa, Brett, and Brianne
Cheryl Zachman
October 7, 2009
Heather and Family,
Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you today and in the future. He will be missed by many from NCC.
Linda Staaf
October 7, 2009
I worked for John in New Student Services for 4 years. He always made me feel appreciated for the work I did for him. I recently lost my husband so I know what the family is going through. It was sudden just like it was for John. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this terrible time in your life.
October 7, 2009
Heather,
My heartfelt condolencenes to you and your family.
Warm regards,
Colleen M. Brickle
October 7, 2009
Fred and were saddened to hear of John's sudden passing. He had a kind and gentle spirit., and always had a warm smile and a big hug whenever I saw him. I know that he'll be missed by many, but especially by Achsah.I'm praying that God will hold her and heal her little heart as well as Heather's and Kelsey's too. Our love to you all. Lisa and Fred Marx
Showing 1 - 93 of 93 results
7300 42nd Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55427
Make a Donation
in John Dawson's name
How to support John's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John Dawson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
