Jon Karl Dawson

Jon “Karl” Dawson, 61, of Keokuk, passed away Monday, October 5, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.

He was born June 2, 1965, in Keokuk, the son of John Carl and Mary Eleen Spiker Dawson. He graduated from Central Lee High School with the Class of 1984. On October 15, 2012, he was united in marriage to Carol “Dee” Handyside in Kahoka.

Besides his wife, Dee, Karl is survived by his three sons, Zach Dawson (Brooke) of Keokuk, Nicholas Dawson (Daisey) of Fort Scott, Kansas, and Dyvon Smith of Keokuk; two daughters, Katie Smith (Joe) of Nauvoo and Rose Jones (Wyatt); eleven grandchildren, Aiden, Brody, Jace, Leah, Remi, Wyatt, Tobie, Jenna, Roman, Emberlie and Artie; a sister, Jenny Hesse (Leonard) of Camanche, Iowa; and a brother, Brad Dawson (Anna) of Carrollton, Ohio, along with many friends and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his aunt and uncle, Marie and Joseph Groves, who raised him.

Karl was a member of the Keokuk Volunteer Emergency Corps and worked as a truck driver for LCL Farms in Keokuk. He enjoyed the open road, especially when he was riding his Harley-Davidson. He had a love for hot rod cars and enjoyed spending time camping. Karl was also an avid rock hunter and loved digging for crystals and geodes. He talked to his brother every day and cherished the special bond they shared.

Family and friends meant everything to Karl, and he especially treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren. They brought him great joy, and he loved making memories with them.

A celebration of life will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on October 17, 2026, at the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in Keokuk.

Memorials may be made to the family.

The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.