Murphys, CA….John Laughton Dawson died December 14, 2012, in Murphys after a three year battle with illness. He was 72 and died peacefully at home with his wife of 52 years Eileen by his side. John was born March 10, 1940, in Liverpool, England, to Thomas Jack and Ivy May Dawson.
Mr. Dawson enjoyed his role as Santa of Murphys and Sonora for over fifteen years. He was a member of the Dodge Brothers of Murphys and the founder of Havnoux Vineyards of Murphys. John was also the president of the Alfa Romeo Association and wrote monthly articles in their CAMS Magazine. He also worked for several local Murphys wineries.
John is survived by his wife Eileen Dawson, sister Rena Schuetz of Oregon, Two Grandsons Thomas John Dawson and Brandon (Bud) Dawson and Daughter In Law Dana Dawson of Hollister, CA. His son John Brian Dawson predeceased him in May 2012.
Donations in Mr. Dawson’s memory can be made to Eileen Dawson c/o Sensible Accounting Service, 150 Big Trees Rd, Ste F, Murphys, CA 95247, to assist with Funeral and Medical costs, Hospice of the Sierra, 20100 Cedar Road North, Sonora, CA 95370, or your favorite charity.