John Carl Dawson, 77 of Keokuk, died Thursday, July 28, 2016 at the Heartland Healthcare Center in Galesburg, IL. He was born on February 7, 1939 in Hamilton, IL the son of Roy Wallace and Bernice Brown Dawson. He was a veteran of the United States Army and proudly served his country. John had been employed by Shellor Globe in Keokuk and was a volunteer for the Keokuk Volunteer Emergency Corp. John loved to roller skate, dance and parade in front of the women. He also enjoyed trying his luck at the casino. He enjoyed watching western shows on television and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. John was a people person and loved to spend time talking to his friends and watching them bowl. He is survived by one daughter, Jenny Hesse (Leonard) of Comanche, IA, two sons, Karl Dawson (Carol Dee) of Keokuk and Brad Dawson (Anna) of Ohio, ten grandchildren, five siblings, Tom Dawson of AL, Lou Dawson of CA, Linda Dawson if CA, Gary Dawson of Donnellson, IA and Larry Dawson of Ft. Madison, IA and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Shirley Dawson. A graveside service with military rites was held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, August 4, 2016 at the Keokuk National Cemetery with Brother Bill Hauser officiating. Memorials may be made to the Keokuk Volunteer Emergency Corp.