Ray Lewis Dawson

Of Hanover, passed away surrounded by his family, August 20, 2021 age 94 years.  He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Pauline, three daughters and one son; Luann (Craig) Crowley, Nancy (Troy) Rumsey, Valerie (Gregg) Williams and Eric (Lina) Dawson, 17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, daughter-in-law Ann Dawson, son-in-law Jeff Barton, two brothers; Richard (Dorothy) and Dean (Bonnie) Dawson, many nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.  He was preceded in death by two daughters and one son; Mary Mandrelle, Allan Dawson and Paula Barton, and son-in-law Jack Mandrelle. 

He graduated from Hanover High School in 1944 and purchased Ray L. Dawson Farm that same year, he then served his country in the U.S. Army with the 114th Engineer Combat Battalion (1950-1952) before returning home to his farm. He was a well-known talented taxidermist for 75 years (North American Big Game Taxidermy).  He had a passion for farming, hunting, fishing and the outdoors which included many travels.  Ray was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend.  He will be greatly missed and always remembered. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church, 211 Harmon St. Concord, Mi, Wednesday 11:00 am Father Tim Krzyzaniak officiating.  Interment will follow at Pulaski Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the Watson Funeral Chapel Tuesday 2-8 pm and at the church Wednesday from 10:00 am until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home, 2150 Kingsbrooke Dr, Jackson, MI 49202; Hanover-Horton Area Historical Society, 101 Fairview Street, Horton,MI 49241; or St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church.

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