James Lee Dawson

Conway, SC......It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Family and friends must say goodbye to James (Jim) L. Dawson born January 21, 1936, in Great Falls, Montana, passed away at his home near Conway, SC, at the age of 87, on March 28th, 2023.
Jim's Parents were Vivian Ilene (Bell) and Melvin (Bud) Dawson of Belt, MT. Step father Robert (Bob) Henderson and adopted sister, Joyce (Henderson) Knaff of Geraldine, MT. He attended North Shrine Lake country school south of the Henderson farm. Graduated from Geraldine High School in 1954 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Arts at Montana State University - Bozeman MT, in 1959. University of Montana-Missoula MT for teaching degree.
October 1959, Jim joined the Army - Helicopter Division/Engine Mechanic, spending 30 months in Germany. October 1962, he transferred to the US Airforce Reserve. He spent majority of his time on helicopter rebuilding and repair, receiving recognition for a special helicopter project. He finalized his military in October 1965 and carried over his Helicopter expertise into his civilian life, building helicopters from just a serial number for several years. Worked for the Forest Service for 3 years locating aircraft in 3 states and became a teacher taught Mechanics.
James L Dawson and Grace (Parrie) Mittal were married in 1976 and have been together for 47 years.
Jim took a job with PandH Cranes in WA, this job allowed him to do the things he enjoyed the most, travel, teaching, welding and work with people. Job took them to- Washington, Alaska, Iowa, South Carolina making a home in each state. Jim retired on July 15, 2005, after 31 years from PandH/TEREX. Jim had traveled to 4 providences in Canada, 17 countries, and 47 states to provide technical service on maintenance, repair, and training on mobile cranes. Jim and Grace continued to live in the Conway, SC area on their farm. Raising cattle and taking care of their 4 rental homes.
His hobbies were welding, traveling, woodworking, and fishing. Really enjoyed the peace of watching the cows, ducks, deer, and all the birds around their home. He was a member of the Masons, Shriners and Scottish Rite.
Jim is survived by his wife Grace Dawson, 3 stepdaughters, Janet (Taylor) Wind Set Ennis, MT, Cynthia (Mittal)(John) Satermo in New Town, ND, Cheryl Mittal Lewistown, MT. 4 grandchildren (Austin, Kelly, Dylan, Jessica). 3 great grandchildren (Alivia, Blake, Kate). Nieces and nephews (Joyce Knaff family).
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 7­­­­­, 2023, at 9:00 am at Creel Funeral Home. Burial and with military honors will follow at Geraldine Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Creel Funeral Home. Jim's family and friends can share memories and condolences at www.creelfuneralhome.com.
Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel is in charge of arrangements in Conway. Sign an online guestbook at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com