Retired CWO-4 Eric Alan Dawson, 74, of Rome City, Indiana died peacefully Friday, September 11, 2026, at his residence.

He was born December 31, 1951 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Daniel and Helen (Pepe) Dawson.

He married LeaAnn Oakley on November 11, 1972, in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Eric was raised in Payne, Ohio, before joining the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served for 23 years before retiring from the Marines. During the Vietnam War, Eric served as a Door Gunner. He later served as a supply officer. He received numerous medals. His 23 years of service reflected a deep commitment to the Marine Corps and to his fellow Marines. After retiring from the military, he worked at Motion Industries and Courier in Kendallville.

Outside of his military service, Eric enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved fishing, especially taking his wife along for a fishing trip or teaching his children to fish. Spending time in his garden, where he took great pride in growing beautiful roses. He enjoyed watching Grumpy Old Men, war movies and shows, and westerns. He was also a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears.

He was a member of the Beaufort, South Carolina VFW.

Surviving are his wife of 53 years, LeaAnn Dawson of Rome City; a son, Robert Alan (Monica) Dawson of Olathe, Kansas; three daughters, Barbara Ann (Jamie) Handshoe of Cree Lake, Kendallville, Josephine Ann (Jeremy) Wallen of Wawaka, and Tiffany Ann (Richard) Wallace of Kendallville; ten grandchildren, Eben, Averyana, Michael-Anthony, Cameron (Autumn), Jess, Casey (Alex), Lauren (Pancho), Megan, Chase, and Krysstopher; three great-grandchildren, Roman, Alex “Xavi”, and Sophia and one more on the way; a brother, Bradford (Francee) Dawson of Calabasas, California; a sister, Lori MacIlroy; a sister-in-law, Cheryl Dawson of Harlan; an aunt, Mary (Maurice) Klein of New Haven; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Dawson; his mother, Helen Green; his stepmother, Nede Dawson; his stepfather, Roger Green; a grandson, Endrix; a brother, Craig Dawson; and his dog, Bear.

Visitation will be Friday, September 18, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, Wolcottville Chapel, 100 Cemetery Street, Wolcottville.

Funeral services will be Saturday, September 19, 2026, beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Chaplain Roger Ford officiating.

Military graveside services will be provided by the Veterans Honor Guard and active-duty members of the United States Marine Corps.

Preferred memorials are to the Honor Flight Northeast Indiana, PO Box 5 Huntertown, IN 46748.

View a video tribute of share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com