George H. Dawson

George H. Dawson, 84, of Springfield, passed away on December 23, 2023 at Springfield Memorial Hospital. He was born on December 1, 1939 in Springfield to Clinton “Bud” Dawson and Eloise “Cissy” Dressendorfer Dawson. George married Mary Louise Wagner in Springfield on June 18, 1966 and she preceded him in death on July 23, 2016.

Mr. Dawson is survived by his children: Liz Havens (daughter) & Rob Havens of Springfield, IL, Karie Carlson (daughter) & Carl Carlson of St. Louis, MO. and Greg Dawson (son) of Springfield, IL. siblings: Nancy Adair (sister) of Springfield, IL. Debbie Rigdon (sister) & Doug Rigdon of Greensboro, GA. grandchildren: Lauren & Dylan Rodes of Charleston, SC. Austin & Alison Havens of Chicago, IL. Madison & Hunter Jones of Bloomington, IL. and Noah Dawson of Springfield, IL. and two great grandchildren: Lyla & Dawson Havens of Chicago, IL.

George served in the US Army Reserves until August of 1966. After graduating from Illinois College with a Bachelor’s Degree, George became the produce manager at Nationals. In 1967 he opened his first business, The Garden on 1st street in Springfield, Illinois. After many business endeavors, George opened the Country Market and ended with the current location opening in 2009. George was an avid traveler of the United States, going from state to state to get new products, produce, and plants for his business. His favorite activity, outside of work, was to go golfing. George was a talented golfer who has played numerous courses across the US. He was also a longtime supporter and fan of the University of Illinois Athletics programs, going to multiple games every year and even traveling to watch them compete.

A memorial visitation will be held on Monday January 8, 2024 from 10:00am until 12:00pm at Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 Koke Mill Road. A private burial will take place at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project and condolences may be left at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com.