PAINESVILLE — James McElroy Dawson, retired Senior Vice President and Economist for National City Bank of Cleveland, passed away Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009, at Lake East Hospital in Painesville at the age of 91.
Always able to explain economic concepts clearly and entertainingly, he gave hundreds of public service talks for the bank across the state and wrote a widely read monthly newsletter, published by the bank. He charmingly mixed personal observation with well-selected data and illuminating commentary on his forecasts for the economy of Ohio, especially of Cleveland.
Born on Dec. 21, 1917, in Beltsville, Md., he spent his childhood in Flushing, N.Y., before moving to Ohio to attend the College of Wooster, followed by a Masters Degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. In 1940, he married his college sweetheart, Jean March, and settled in Ashtabula, commuting daily into the city. In 1966, they moved to Painesville, their permanent home. After retiring from the bank, Mr. Dawson contributed his volunteer labor to the needs of Lake County, one year being named “Volunteer of the Year”.
A loving husband, father, grandfather and devoted caregiver, Mr. Dawson is survived by his wife and five children. The four sons, one daughter and their spouses are Steve and Ruth Dawson of Honolulu, Hawaii; James and Bernadette Dawson of Palm Coast, Fla.; Glenn and Judi Dawson of Woodbury, Conn.; Robert and Nancy Dawson of Anchorage, Alaska; and Kristy and Terrance Rowley of Naugatuck, Conn. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Blanche (McElroy) Dawson, and sister, Helen Campbell.
There will be no calling hours; service for the family.
Memorial contributions to Hope Chest, 85 North Park Place, Painesville, Ohio 44077.
Arrangements were handled by SPEAR-MULQUEENY FUNERAL HOME of Painesville. Obituary and condolences at starbeacon.com.
