John Thomas “Jack” Dawson, 75, of California, Missouri, passed away peacefully Friday, August 1, 2025, at his residence.

He was born on October 15, 1949, in Sullivan, Missouri to James B. and Mildred (Fischer) Dawson.

Jack was a 1967 graduate of Owensville High School and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri.

He was united in marriage on May 4, 1974, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Jefferson City to Mary Kay Reinke who survives at the home.

Jack worked as a Jefferson City Police Officer and worked for the City of Jefferson managing Oak Hills Golf Center.  Jack worked twenty-two years for the State of Missouri Department of Revenue until his retirement.

As a child, Jack grew up loving sports which continued through his entire life and continued with his grandchildren, who he was so proud of.  It gave him the greatest joy and love to watch and talk about (maybe brag just a little) every game and activity the grandchildren did.

Jack’s greatest personal sporting accomplishment was playing for Midstate Oil Slow Pitch Softball Team.  Midstate Oil were the State Champions 1974-1979.  They were inducted into the 2010 Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on January 31, 2010, and inducted into the 2010 Missouri ASA Hall of Fame, Special Team Induction on February 20, 2010, for outstanding accomplishments and special dedication to the sport of softball.  

Jack also had a love and talent for the golf game.  He was always ready to give a helpful tip to other golfers.  Jack went on to referee and umpire for different sporting games. 

Survivors include his wife Mary Kay of fifty-one years; a son, James “Jim” (Stacia) Dawson, Linn; a daughter, Carrie (Brian) Roellig, California, Missouri; granddaughter, Ryleigh Roellig, grandson, Dawson Roellig, and granddaughter, Parker Roellig; a brother, James B. “Jim” (Polly) Dawson, Owensville; nieces, nephews, and cousins; a brother-in-law, David (Alice) Reinke, Camdenton, Missouri; and a dear friend, Bill Philbert.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Donna Dawson Leslie.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the donor’s choice, Jefferson City Boys and Girls Club, or Compassus Hospice Care.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City.trimblefunerals.com