Jack Lowell Dawson

Jack Lowell Dawson, 85, of L’Anse, was born on November 1, 1940, and went to be with his Lord Jesus on February 19, 2026. A man of deep faith, steady strength, and joyful humor, Jack lived a full and faithful life devoted to God, his family, and the great outdoors he so dearly loved.

Jack’s love for nature was evident in the thousands of hours he spent fishing the waters of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and trapper in the UP woods. His skill and dedication earned him the distinction of being a two-time Master Angler — an achievement he treasured. He especially loved thunderstorms, standing in awe of what he called “the power of God” displayed across the sky.

Faith was the cornerstone of Jack’s life. He loved the Lord with all his heart and often reminded those around him, “This life is a brief training for the next.” He joyfully gave countless hours serving as an electrician at L’Anse Baptist Church and at Gitchee Gumme Bible Camp. Using his talents to serve the Lord brought him immense happiness and purpose.

Jack worked faithfully for 40 years as a foreman at Celotex, where he was known for his strong work ethic and steady leadership. After high school, he served eight years in the National Guard, following a brief time working on the ore boats — early experiences that helped shape the resilient and disciplined man he became.

He cherished his wife of over 51 years, Edie, with a devoted and tender love. He was a proud and loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who delighted in his children and grandchildren. Jack also loved good food and family meals — often asking about the next meal while still enjoying the current one. He had a playful spirit and a wide range of interests, from planting a big garden every year, playing the trumpet, walking the 4-mile religiously and watching the Thunderbirds soar at air shows. He also loved to listen to bluegrass music, the harmonies of ABBA, the marches of John Philip Sousa, and beloved church hymns on his CD player usually asking his kids repeatedly how to work it.

In his later years, Jack faced bladder and prostate cancer as well as Parkinson’s disease with remarkable courage. He met each diagnosis with strength, dignity, and his characteristic humor, continuing to encourage those around him even in the midst of his own trials.

He was preceded in death by his father, Orval Dawson; his mother, Dorothy Dawson; his brother, Gary; his stepdaughter, Pam Selden; and his stepson, Steve Selden.

He is survived by his loving wife, Edie; sisters Mary (Ed) Brennan and Dee Dee (Curt) Rehn; son Bob (Triny) Dawson, daughters Karrie (Dan) Tipler and Rebecca (Jay) Feely ; stepdaughter Michelle (Dale) Goodreau; and stepson Bob (Tanya) Selden. He also leaves behind granddaughters Lexi Falk, Abby Feely, Olivia Feely, Kaitlyn Tipler, Valya Tipler, Melissa Thorberg, Sandra Johnson, Tori Hensley, Kaley Lein, Ailee Jezek, Jenn Douck, and Summer Chavez; grandsons Jace Feely, Cole Tipler, Vova Tipler, Paul Dawson, Daniel Dawson, Jessie Hensley, Jesse Jezek, Levi Jezek, Bobby Selden, and Zach Selden; and 28 great-grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy of faith, strength, and love.

Jack’s life was a testament to steady devotion — to his Savior, his family, his work, and the woods and waters he cherished. Though he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the promise he held so firmly: that this life is only the beginning of something far greater in Glory.

He fought the good fight. He finished the course. He kept the faith. —II Timothy 4:7