Alice "Jo" Josephine Dawson, 84, of Kellogg, Idaho, passed away hand in hand with her granddaughter Vesta and son Michael, on January 6, 2012 at the Hospice House of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho; Jo passed away due to a chronic disease. She was born October 28, 1927 at Tryon, Nebraska; Jo was the daughter of Stephen J. and Nynon M. (Pearson) Clifford.
Jo attended and graduated from the Tryon High School of Tryon, Nebraska at the age of sixteen. She became a teacher and had taught school in McPherson County of Nebraska for three years.
Jo married Kenneth Dawson in 1947 at North Platte, Nebraska. They lived on a ranch in McPherson County. Kenneth then re-enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean Conflict. Jo and Kenneth then moved to California where they lived until 1964.
In 1964, Jo moved to the Silver Valley and while residing here, she had served as a postal clerk. And then in 1983, Jo moved to Valley, Washington and served as a Post Master until her retirement in 1993, when she then moved back to Kellogg, Idaho. The last year of her life, Jo lived with her granddaughter Vesta Brady of Kellogg, who so lovingly took care of her.
Jo attended the American Lutheran Church of Kellogg. She loved and enjoyed family gatherings, singing, gardening and lived a very active life.
Jo is survived by four children Michael and his wife Mary Lou Dawson of Spokane, Washington, Stephen and his wife Pam Dawson of Hayden Lake, Idaho, Pat and his wife Joan Dawson of Kingston, Idaho and Kendra and her husband Scott Cunningham of Spokane, Washington; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one sister Maxine Abrams of Nebraska and numerous nieces and nephews. Jo was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Kenneth, one brother Tom Clifford, three sisters Dorothy, Billie and Pat and one granddaughter Stephanie Hite. Jo is also survived by numerous and beloved friends; especially her dear friend Gail Haynes-Nearing, who was like a daughter to Jo and whose many kindnesses were so greatly appreciated. Jo is also survived by a childhood friend Mary (Cotton) Weems of Nebraska. Jo will be truly missed by her family and friends.
Cremation was held and Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2012, at 11:00 A.M. at the American Lutheran Church of Kellogg, Idaho with Rev. Jason Bonnicksen officiating. A reception/luncheon will be held at the Veterans Memorial Hall (formerly the Steelworkers Hall) of Kellogg, following services and everyone is welcome.
SHOSHONE FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORY KELLOGG, IDAHO is entrusted with funeral arrangements.
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Jo was a very special person to have known and we offer our deepest sympathy to you her family. -- Sherm and Lawanna Watts
We were blessed to know Jo and the rest of the family. Rented their house when we were first married 40 years ago. Loved Jo, Pat and Kendra and our prayers and Love go out to you in this time of sorrow. Just know your friends are with you and we will miss her. -- Clyde, Lynn, Melane and Clint Roose
In remembrance of Alice Josephine Dawson: I feel so privileged to have known you, Jo. I enjoyed our years working together at the post office in Valley and our visits and your friendship. I will miss you. Until we meet again. Love you. -- Ed and Jerri Holz
