Daniel McDowell Dawkins, 65, of Keokuk passed away on Sunday evening April 3, 2016 in Keokuk, Iowa. He was born on December 30,1950, in St Charles, Mo. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Marian Dawkins, of Keokuk. He was a 1969 graduate of Keokuk High School. Dan honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1972 and was stationed in Germany. After his return from Germany he became a life long resident of Keokuk. He worked most of his life as an independent contractor and gifted carpenter. He is survived by one son, Jacob Dawkins and one stepdaughter, Samantha McCullough Moore and children, two sisters, Mary Walker and Teresa Dawkins and one brother, Chris Dawkins, and lots of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Daniel enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved the river, sailing his sailboat, fishing and being with his loved ones. He was deeply loved by all his family and great friends! He will be greatly missed! Sail on my brother! A gathering of remembrance was held from 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday, April 3, 2016 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk.