Jerry Wayne Dawson Sr.

Jerry Wayne Dawson, Sr., age 78, of Marion, IL, passed away Wednesday, June 11, 2025 quietly and peacefully at his home, with his wife and family at his side.
Jerry was born on November 24, 1946 in Chippewa Falls, WI, to Burle Sr and Mary Kathleen (Bennett) Dawson.
Jerry was first united in marriage to Cheryl (Goettl) Dawson; to them were born five sons. In 2015 Jerry married Katherine (Yockers) Surprenant of Marion, IL.
Jerry graduated from Chippewa Falls High School in 1964. Immediately after graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy. He was trained as an Electrician's Mate 3rd class serving in Destroyer Squadron 32 aboard the USS Vogelgesang. Jerry was proud to be a Shellback, which meant he crossed the equator. He also circumnavigated the globe. Jerry was honorably discharged in November of 1967 and returned to Wisconsin to support his growing family.
Jerry was a hard working man with many skills, his last employment was maintaining Ten Oaks Apartment Complex in Carterville, IL.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Katherine E. Dawson of Marion, IL. His sons, Jerry Wayne Jr (Andrea) Dawson of Hayward, WI, Phillip (Kim) Dawson of Crainville, IL, William "Billy" Dawson of Hayward, WI and Troy (Wendy) Dawson of Menomonie, WI. A step-son, John (Kenya Morgan) Surprenant of Atlanta, GA and step-daughter, Emily (Cameron) Cole of Herrin, IL. Two brothers, Burle (Carol Lee) of Ozark, AL and David (Nancy) Dubberke Nancy of Aloha, OR; two sisters, Karen Dubberke of Rock Island, IL and Peggy Bingham of Parsons, TN. Eighteen grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren with another one on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Burle (Kathy) Dawson, his step father Cliff Dubberke, his sister, Sue Johnston; his first wife of 43 years Sherry Dawson, and their son Duane Dawson.
Jerry was a very private person and in accordance with his wishes there will be no public services. He will be cremated and his cremains will be scattered in the "Blue Water" he loved.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL.
Memorial donations may be made directly to American Legion Post No. 147 and Heyde-Pillow V.F.W. Post No. 1301, both of Marion.