Douglas Alan Dawson

Douglas Alan Dawson of Waukee passed away on May 18, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date.

Doug was born on December 7, 1945 in Cherokee, IA, to Elva and Lyle Dawson. He attended Spencer public schools and earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Iowa where he met his wife Pat. Doug and Pat were loyal Hawkeyes fans for 58 years. He also earned a master's degree from Drake University.

Doug was quick to note that 1968 was a banner year. During the spring, over the course of three weeks, he graduated from the University of Iowa, married his sweetheart Patricia Newell, and joined the Army National Guard.

Doug was a celebrated athlete, excelling in track and football in his formative years. In his twenties Doug found his passion for playing golf. He loved and respected the game and was an avid golfer for over 50 years. His family estimates that he played an approximate 3,275 rounds (58,950 holes) in his lifetime, not bad. He cherished this time spent outdoors with friends and family but loved nothing more than a round with his sons. It should be said that he always resisted the temptation to improve his lie and he loved the Zen of a putting green at dusk.

Doug loved to travel. He and Pat visited the British Isles and other European countries, the Caribbean islands, and made several trips to Peru where he marveled at the ancient civilizations and the Nazca Lines. He also enjoyed many trips around the U.S., months in Florida and "driving through the West." Taking his boys on fishing trips to Minnesota lakes, exploring Mesa Verde with them and navigating the many wonders of Washington, DC are highlights.

Doug was a wonderful man. He was loved by so so many; he was charming, handsome, and quick to disarm you with his humor and humility. His joke telling was unmatched and his ability to commit to a character and build slowly to a punchline was his superpower. His penchants for wandering off and for wanting anchovies on the pizza were tolerated by those who loved him.

Doug is survived by his wife of 58 years, Patricia, and his sons: William Dylan (Lizbeth Cayro) and Colin Newell, and granddaughter, Mila Cayro Dawson, all of Seattle, WA, his sister, Mary Ann Kiger of White Bear Lake, MN, and many beloved nieces and nephews and their children. Doug was preceded in death by his brother Dean.