survived by his wife Dixie Dawson, his two children Devin Dawson and Cherie Kuri, three
grandchildren Ellie Dawson, Peyton Dawson and Carolina Kuri, and his sister Arleen Eckert.
Jim lived over 50 years in Manhattan Beach, CA.
Jim was born in San Pedro, CA and served two years in the Navy during Vietnam. He then
went into education and was a teacher, counselor, and principal at Dexter Middle School in
Whittier, CA for 35 years.
Jim had an incredible sense of adventure and loved to travel, including traversing Europe in a
VW bug, traveling around Japan, and attending shows like the Monterey Pop Festival in the
1960s. After Jim and Dixie were married, they continued these adventures, camping through
Europe, going on surf trips in Mexico, and eventually traveling the world with kids in tow during
their summers off. He also enjoyed surfing, sailing, skiing, golf and watching soccer.
Jim was a devoted husband, incredible dad, and friend to so many. He was active in the
community, and spent countless hours coaching girls and boys soccer teams.
In later years, he loved hanging out with his wonderful neighbors in his beloved “Vortex.”
Neighbors would frequently find him on his deck greeting them, and asking them up to the
house. He was always quick to offer help, wisdom and a joke. His warmth, generosity and love will be missed by so many.
Celebration of Life for James Dawson
March 15, 2025 from 10 to 2 pm.
Surfers will paddle out at 35th Street in Manhattan Beach
Refreshments to follow at 324 35th Street
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