Remembering Jo Dawson


Josephine Ruth Dawson



She was born in Seattle to Jay and Eliza Jane Case on 10/31/1927. She was preceded in death by her husband Warren of 72 years, her son Robert and daughter Elaine.  Jo is survived by her sister Mary Sandiford, son David (Gail), daughter-in-law Connie Dawson, son-in-law Larry Anderson, 8 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. 

Raised in the Fremont neighborhood during the Great Depression, she recalled having a wonderful childhood, which included special gatherings in Kirkland and up at the family cabin on Fidalgo Island overlooking Rosario Beach.  Jo graduated from Lincoln H.S. in 1945 and was a founder of “T-Day.” She studied at the Cornish School of Dance and attended the U of W majoring in Dance and Mathematics. She met the love of her life, Warren, in a Philosophy class at UW. They were married in July of 1946.

 Jo and Warren raised their three children in the house they built together in the Haller Lake community. They remained active members and volunteers of the Haller Lake Community Club serving on the board and enjoying many club activities over the years, especially the dances.  

Jo was a life-long learner, an avid gardener and world traveler supporting the arts throughout her life. She enjoyed painting, jewelry making and cooking, especially for Warren’s sweet tooth.  Jo was a gracious hostess and skilled event planner, whether planning for family celebrations, Lincoln H.S. annual reunions or community fundraisers. 

Nothing gave Jo more happiness than to have her family together for birthdays and the holidays. Jo was the lady people called to get projects started and finished (including the club’s elevator) with her special talents, charm and elegance.  


The caption next to Jo’s name in her Lincoln H.S. yearbook is, “Our First Lady.” She will forever remain, “Our First Lady” in the hearts of friends and her family. 

Jo passed away peacefully at home on 10/8/2019.

A celebration of Jo’s beautiful life will be held on Sunday, Nov. 24th from 1 P.M. to 3 P.M. at the Haller Lake Community Club.  




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